Generating and Keeping Clients with Cloud CMA + Homebeat
Multiple Dates and times Learn how to set your clients and leads to automatically receive live updates on where their home stands in the marketplace, with Cloud CMA and Homebeat. In this webinar, you'll learn how to stand out and stay top of mind, by easily providing your contacts with the information they want and need. Register now!

Women's Council of REALTORS® Begins Hunt for Next CEO
Women's Council of REALTORS® is a nationwide community of approximately 13,000 real estate professionals, including many of the industry's best and brightest. Its network of more than 250 local and state networks in nearly 40 states with volunteer leaders trained to position their groups as a business resource in their REALTOR® communities is the backbone of the Council. This structure represents the largest network infrastructure in the REALTOR® family, including 1,200 elected officers that drive over 1,500 programs annually focused on business leadership. Women's Council offers award-winning business leadership programs, including the Network 360 Leadership Conference, and a Women's Council Leadership Institute, carrying out the Council's mission to advance women as professionals and business leaders in the industry and communities members serve. Business leadership education is also a core purpose of the Council today. The Performance Network Management program provides members specific training in areas including presentation skills, running a business, negotiation skills, and networking and referrals. Finally, the Women's Council hosts a robust referral network. The average commission income from Council member-to-member referrals is $15,000, with 54% of members referring business to each other annually. Position Scope The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the staff leader of the Women's Council and is directly responsible to the leadership team and reports to the Executive Committee for the effective conduct of Council affairs. As the key evangelist and driver of the organization, the successful candidate will deliver the passion, leadership, and organizational skills needed to drive significant growth, engagement, program excellence, and member customer loyalty. Working closely with the Executive Committee, the CEO will be responsible for leading and driving the execution of the company's strategic mission objectives and related policies. The successful candidate will be great at building a highly engaged, inspired, and productive staff. They will be adept at balancing their external needs with the effective management and motivation of the team. They will be an out-of-box thinker that will help the staff be resourceful, responsive, and nimble. Under their guidance, the staff will become ever more effective at improving the quality of programming, working effectively with local networks, and continually increasing membership and participation. The infectious enthusiasm, depth of networking skills, and presentation abilities of the CEO will enable them to represent the organization and secure speaking engagements across the industry and beyond to raise the stature and awareness of the Women's Council of REALTORS®. The ideal candidate will be adept at identifying and securing partnerships and sponsorships and fostering relationships with high-powered individuals in the industry to further the objectives of the Women's Council membership. They will also have proven skills at expanding the diversity and inclusiveness of the membership and leadership and incorporating DEI disciplines into every component of the organization. Ideally, the CEO will be able to fully leverage the potential of NAR resources to help develop staff and leadership, increase marketing exposure, and maximize participation in the Council's leadership training programs, events, and local networks. The successful CEO must have proven abilities to continue to strengthen the financial health of the organization to ensure the Council's programs and events can be enriched and enhanced. Key Responsibilities Reports to Leadership Team and Executive Committee – President and the Leadership Team The CEO Is directly accountable to the Leadership Team and Executive Committee for management of the Council. They are a partner in setting member-centric Council direction, goals, and priorities. The CEO is responsible to provide full transparency on the execution progress of the strategic plan, programs, and events. They will ensure necessary information, liaison, and staff support to committee chairs to enable committees to effectively fulfill their charges. They also carry out other specific responsibilities as officers and the governing board may specify. The CEO coordinates board meetings and all official functions of the Council and maintains official minutes of the governing board, the annual business meeting, the Executive Committee, and other official meetings. The CEO is responsible for arming the leadership team with appropriate talking points/presentations. They also sit as ex-officio, non-voting member of the NAR Board of Directors. The CEO also provides communications to the governing board and provides appropriate detail on the status of Council goals and priorities; informs officers of problems, emerging issues, and intended solutions. Manages Council Staff of 7 The CEO is responsible for directing, managing, and maximizing the effectiveness and productivity of the Women's Council of REALTORS® staff. They will assess staffing requirements and build an organizational structure to maximize productivity of the staff. They are solely responsible for the hiring, firing, supervision, and professional development (including individual goals and annual review) of Council staff, providing direction and support in the fulfillment of their responsibilities. Membership Engagement The CEO arms the network leaders with research, content and promotional materials to generate increases in membership, engagement, member retention and relevance. They accomplish these important goals while operating within the confines of the Council's charter, bylaws, articles of incorporation, and policies established by the governing board. They build strong working relationships with local and state network leaders. The CEO arms the entire network with materials, marketing, and programs to encourage deeper engagement at the local, state, and national levels. Program Development and Continual Enhancements Leadership development is one of the key strengths of the organization. The successful CEO will ensure the Council's programs are impactful, engaging and continually updated. They will ensure development of Council programs, services and activities that meet member needs. They will also oversee the following program activities: Serves as publisher/supervising editor of Council publications. Conducts research and related projects on subjects of importance to the membership and prepares and publishes the results. Oversees development of education programs to advance the professional, technical, and business skills of the membership, operating within the budget and program objectives approved by the governing board. Oversees development and delivery of membership recruitment and retention programs, evaluates results, and recommends policies, procedures, and actions to achieve membership goals. Directs the planning, promotion and delivery of national meetings and conferences. The CEO will also be excellent at generating interest in Council programs by overseeing highly engaging public relations, online marketing, and social media programs. They will also empower the local and state networks to promote Council content and national events. Manages the Financial Well-being of the Organization The CEO ensures the organization is financially healthy by effectively managing budgets, cash flow and investments. They will be adept at managing finances and ensuring the organization is financially healthy and sustainable for the long run. They continually pursue new revenue opportunities to increase revenues to provide opportunities to reinvest in new programming and upgrade current member offerings. The CEO provides regular financial updates to the leadership team, including monthly financial reports and draft annual budget for review and input from the leadership team into the budgeting process. Manages Council funds in various accounts and financial vehicles in accordance with approved investment policy. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Ensures that diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are not just a statement but an integral aspect of each of the Council's programs, relationships, services, operations, and leadership. The successful CEO will forge relationships with organizations that service underserved organizations, which is indeed how this organization was founded 85 years ago. Manages Operation and Company Policies and Procedures The CEO will develop and document administrative procedures and programs to implement the policies of the governing board and to maintain oversight and transparency of Council programs and activities. Ensures compliance with and regular review of Council bylaws. The successful CEO will negotiate and execute contracts and commitments as authorized by the governing board or within established policies including but not limited to the lease for office space and any financial/legal/HR services agreements with NAR. They provide methods for maintaining adequate recordkeeping and security for all files, legal and historical documents, and membership and mailing lists. The CEO will also ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements for operation of the Council and will consistently update cybersecurity protocols. They will also build a disaster recovery plan for all elements of the organization. Strategic Planning The CEO leads the strategic planning effort in partnership with the leadership team and Executive Committee. They work with staff to operationalize strategic goals and turn initiatives into achievable and measurable action plans and deliverables. They will work with staff to develop key performance indicators to monitor and report on progress. They will host an annual member satisfaction survey to track member awareness, engagement, and satisfaction. Technology Acumen and Leadership The ideal candidate will be abreast of today's technologies used to maximize member engagement, renewals, and customer service. Specifically, they will be up to speed on membership management, customer relationship management systems, marketing/social media automation, cybersecurity and website trends. Secondarily, they will need to be in tune with emerging technologies and trends to ensure they are included in leadership training and curriculums for Council events. They will also be skilled at identifying and incorporating technology, outsources and other methods to maximize the productivity of the staff. Business Development and Partnerships The successful CEO will dramatically expand the awareness, stature, and impact of the Women's Council of REALTORS® by representing the organization and its mission in industry arenas and in areas of focus of leadership development and women's business priorities. They will become a member of the National Association of REALTORS® and by virtue of the position become a member of the NAR Institute Advisory Committee and a non-voting member of the NAR Board of Directors. They will forge deep partnerships with many departments within the National Association of REALTORS® to fully leverage resources. The ideal candidate will have proven success in developing and maintaining effective relationships with other organizations as appropriate to further the purpose and objectives of the Council. Key Skills The proactive leader of the Women's Council of REALTORS® will create a culture of innovation, resourcefulness, positivity, and member responsiveness. They will also: Be passionate and dedicated to the ideals and goals of the Council. Be driven and passionate about their work and capable of working effectively under pressure. High integrity with excellent leadership, interpersonal, and motivational skills. Possess the ability to balance working effectively to support volunteer leadership while effectively managing internal employees, corporate organization, and outside resources. Be able to draw the fine balance between external relationship building while also possessing proven administrative, financial management and organizational skills. Demonstrates creativity in identifying and managing resources. Is forward thinking, anticipating needs and issues and identifying opportunities. Is an excellent communicator, able to articulate, both orally and in writing, the Council's purpose, objectives, and programs, and works effectively with diverse individuals and personalities. Be an inclusive team player that inspires leadership and membership at every level. Has strong presentation and speaking skills to represent the Council in various forums to further our outreach. Minimum of a 4-year college degree, ideally with an emphasis in management, education, or marketing. Work Location: At the Headquarters office, Chicago, IL If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your resume to Marilyn Wilson at [email protected] To view the original article, visit the WAV Group blog.

How to Identify Red Flags on Rental Applications
If you are looking for rental horror stories, you need look no further than Buzzfeed and social media sites like Reddit. You'll find stories of unpaid rent, damaged apartments, unreasonable tenants, scams, and unpaid utilities and charges. No landlord or property manager wants to rent to this kind of horror-story tenant. Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself and prevent getting into a contract with this type of person. Protect yourself by avoiding red flags on rental applications. Lack of Rental History Lack of rental history can be a red flag on your rental application, but it depends on the circumstance. For example, if your tenant is younger, it would be absolutely normal for them to have a limited history noting they have been living with family. The pandemic also sent many hardworking persons home to live with family, so it wouldn't be odd to have a limited set of referrals during this time. Another reason a rental history may be limited for a good reason is if the person was a homeowner and has now shifted to rentals, such as after a divorce. Lack of rental history becomes a red flag when there isn't a good reason why this history can't be provided. Be aware of applications without rental history or reason. Self-Reported Credit and Income Most people will honestly report their credit and income if asked. Some prospective tenants will also attempt to save on fees by providing their own verification, such as providing a credit report of their own to help avoid additional fees. Yet while most people are honest, the few that are not create a red flag for the rest. Self-reports are a simple way for bad renters to falsify information by sharing outdated reports or pay stubs or digitally altering information. Since most people don't have the skills to create a "Catch Me if You Can" style con, an experienced property manager may be able to spot a fake. If you don't feel confident in this evaluation, however, it's best to get your reports directly from credit agencies and/or employer verification. Hurry, Hurry, Hurry Prospective tenants in a hurry can be tenants with a problem. Watch out for a red flag when tenants appear to be in an unreasonable hurry. An unreasonable hurry could include refusing to view the rental before submitting an application, especially if the renter is local (long-distance renters can take a video tour). Rushing through the paperwork without reading and/or asking the landlord to waive any part of the process should be a red flag that the prospective renter may have something to hide. Offering cash in lieu of research, such as an additional deposit to avoid a background check is an example of hurried tenants to avoid. A reasonable hurry includes a tenant whose previous rental is being sold, is relocating because of a job offer, or even trying to meet an end-of-month rental deadline. In today's current tight housing market, it may seem as if everyone is in a hurry. Your best tools to tell the difference are by balancing this task with the rest of the rental application information. Incorrect or Missing Information Some renters with a poor rental history will attempt to gloss over their red flags by either omitting or falsifying application information. Avoid this red flag by making sure applicants are informed up front that incomplete applications will not be processed. Use common sense measures to cross-check self-reported information such as checking a driver's license and using third-party verifications such as employment income tools as well as credit and or background check agencies. One commonly falsified set of information is personal references. After all, it's not too hard to ask a friend to say you'll do a great job. Because of this flag, many property managers are moving away from the request for personal references. Instead, property managers are seeking former rental references from landlords and property management to better gauge a renter's qualifications. Personal references may still be appropriate for situations listed earlier if a renter has a limited history or life change. Identifying these red flags in prospective renters will help you better manage your rental, and create a more fair and equitable opportunity for future renters. Understand that a red flag simply means you need to explore the situation further, and is not always an automatic denial. To view the original article, visit the Wise Agent blog.

Realtor.com Agent Profile Basics
Multiple dates In this short and sweet session, you'll learn how the Realtor.com agent profile can increase your online visibility and get your more business! We'll show how your profile showcases your local brand to net you more leads. You'll learn how to post your recommendations and testimonials as well as take advantage of our Ratings and Reviews section, the only agent rating system endorsed by the NAR as one that empowers agents. We'll show you how to set it up and flush it out including images and videos. Register now!

How Real Estate Agents Can Use Virtual Reality to Scale their Business
Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing the way we interact with the world around us, and the real estate industry is no exception. As the world becomes increasingly digital, it's crucial for real estate agents to adapt and incorporate VR into their business strategies to stay competitive. In this post, we'll explore how real estate agents can use virtual reality to scale their real estate business and provide an immersive experience for their clients. Providing immersive experiences One of the most significant advantages of using VR in real estate is the ability to provide an immersive experience for potential buyers. Clients can tour properties virtually using VR technology, which enables them to do so whenever and from any location in the world. This is especially useful for buyers from other countries or states who are unable to attend live showings. A real estate brokerage company like Redfin, for instance, recently introduced a virtual home-buying program that enables customers to explore homes in 3D, virtually tour the property, and even measure the dimensions of individual rooms. Redfin has been able to close deals with clients who are unable to attend in-person showings thanks to technology, which has also helped them differentiate themselves from competing real estate firms. More interactive approach By enabling real estate agents to showcase properties in a more interactive and interesting way, VR can also aid them in growing their business. VR technology allows real estate agents to create immersive experiences that give clients a better sense of the property's layout, features, and overall vibe rather than just showing them photos and videos of the properties. For instance, the company Matterport, which produces 3D virtual tours of properties, has assisted real estate agents in creating more interesting property listings. Customers can explore the property in a 3D model, view each room from various perspectives, and get a better idea of how the property flows overall. This promotes quicker sales by assisting clients in making better-informed decisions about which properties to pursue. Save time and money VR technology can also help real estate agents save time and money. In conventional real estate, agents may invest countless hours preparing for showings, driving clients to properties, and responding to inquiries about properties. Real estate agents can now conduct virtual showings and give clients all the information they require without ever leaving the office thanks to VR technology. For instance, real estate agents have been able to save time and money by using virtual tours of properties created by VRX Studios, a business that develops virtual reality experiences for the hospitality and real estate industries. These virtual tours give customers a thorough overview of the property, enabling them to decide whether or not to pursue the property with greater knowledge. Less time will be wasted traveling to properties that might not be a good fit for the client. Improve operations In addition to the benefits for clients, VR technology can also help real estate agents improve their internal operations. Real estate agents, for instance, can create more precise floor plans with the aid of VR technology, which will help them market properties more successfully. Additionally, it may enable agents to work with other team members more effectively, facilitating information sharing and project collaboration. For example, the 3D floor plan and virtual tour company Planitar has assisted real estate agents in streamlining their internal procedures. Real estate agents can produce more effective marketing materials that highlight the special features of a property if they are given precise 3D floor plans. Other team members, such as photographers and marketers, can also access the 3D floor plans, facilitating better collaboration. In conclusion, virtual reality technology has the potential to revolutionize the real estate industry. By providing clients with an immersive experience, helping real estate agents showcase properties more effectively, saving time and money, and improving internal operations, VR technology can help real estate agents scale their business and stand out from the competition. As the world becomes increasingly digital, real estate agents who incorporate VR technology into their business strategies will have a competitive advantage in the marketplace. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

The 7 Deadly Sins of Facebook Ads
Results from your Facebook ads not living up to your expectations? Instead of looking at what you should be doing — most of which you probably already know — let's look at what you shouldn't be doing. To help you discover which aspect of your current ad strategy is hamstringing your efforts, Realtor Jaime Resendiz shares what he calls the "seven deadly sins of Facebook ads." These include: Not having a call-to-action Not testing ads Using bad multimedia We won't list the rest here. Instead, watch the video above and find out the crucial mistakes to avoid. After all, what you don't do is often just as important as what you do! Further Reading How to Create Real Estate Facebook Ads that Work The Best Facebook Ads to Target Real Estate Buyers One Simple Rule to Ensure Your Ads Don't Violate Fair Housing Laws

RPR for New NAR Members: The Complete Beginner Series
Five dates, from May 24 - June 20 We know that there are many new challenges to getting started and growing your business. And RPR is here to help. As a REALTOR®, you have access to RPR, an essential tool for every member. RPR is included in your membership dues so there are no extra fees to access the platform. We'll show you how to create an RPR account and ensure your account is properly set up. RPR provides data, tools and property reports to help you get your business up and running. Here's an overview of what you'll find in RPR: Residential and Commercial Property Information Public record and MLS data Pricing and Prospecting Tools Market Analysis Tools Neighborhood information, school data, and walkability and livability scores Shareable Templated Reports for clients and customers In this brief 30-minute session, we'll provide you a high level overview of the RPR platform. You won't be disappointed! Register now!

Advice for Real Estate Pros: Why Your Handshake Matters
At least 55% of human interactions is non-verbal. Are you projecting a confident image and your first impression is the one of a knowledgeable and caring real estate pro? How is your handshake? The first impression is formed in seconds, not minutes — make it count. Here are the five how-to's of a successful handshake for real estate pros: 1. Be Prepared In any environment where you're meeting people, make sure your right hand is free. Shift anything you're holding to your left hand well in advance — you don't want to have to fumble at the last moment. You should definitely avoid holding a drink in your right hand, especially if it's cold, as the condensation can make your hand feel clammy. 2. Consider Your Body Language Remember, a handshake isn't just about a single action — there's a lot more that goes into it. If you're seated, always rise before shaking someone's hand. If you're standing, keep your hands out of your pockets. Visible hands make you look more open and honest. Keep your head straight, without tilting it in any way, and face the person fully. Make sure to use plenty of eye contact, and smile warmly, but briefly (too much smiling could make you appear over-eager). 3. Get in Position When you're reaching out your hand to shake, keep it perfectly perpendicular, neither dominant (palm down) nor submissive (palm up). When in doubt, angle your thumb straight up to the ceiling. Open wide the space between your thumb and index finger, which will ensure you get optimal thumb-web contact, which makes for the ideal handshake. 4. Make Contact and Shake To ensure the right level of contact between your hand and your partner's, keep your palm flat, not cupped, when you reach out to shake. Once full contact is made, lock your thumb down and squeeze firmly — you can mirror your partner's handshake if it's firm and assertive. Shake from your elbow (not your wrist) about 2-3 pumps. You can linger for a moment if you want to convey particular warmth, then release and smile. 5. Practice Often Sound like a lot? It is, until you get the hang of it. Try practicing with friends or family, people who will give you truly candid feedback. This type of practice is what will truly make your handshake perfect, and make a dramatic difference in how prospective and existing clients and business partners perceive you. To view the original article, visit the Zurple blog.

Data Layers on Maps in RPR
You're a REALTOR® working with a client dreaming of buying her first home. She's watched prices snowball in her preferred neighborhoods and has made several offers without success. Her enthusiasm is waning. What to do? Take advantage of the new-and-improved housing market data overlays on the maps in Realtors Property Resource® (RPR). Start with the layer showing the median sold price. This is a monthly calculation for geographies such as ZIP code, city, county and state using public records and MLS data. It looks like your client's favorite neighborhood, Happy Place, is near the high end of home values in Pleasantville, where she hopes to relocate from her apartment in nearby Busy Town. In fact, you can validate the price escalation by looking at another overlay, the one showing the 12-month change in median estimated property value. You pan around the map and notice Hidden Gem, a neighborhood a couple of miles from Happy Place, where you can easily see that prices are declining slightly. Hidden Gem is ripe for further research on behalf of your client. This kind of visual market analysis is made possible by RPR's latest integration with Google Maps Platform, leveraging their new data-driven styling capabilities. Each month, RPR aggregates key market statistics, such as the median sold price and median estimated property value. Now, thanks to data-driven styling, RPR can superimpose the metrics on website maps, using coloring by various geography, which provides handy knowledge at a glance. The new map overlays are timely (updated monthly), intuitive (easy to access and interpret), and performant (fast to load in the RPR platform). RPR is one of the first real estate portals to implement Google Maps Platform's new capability and was spotlighted by Google Maps Platform in their I/O developer conference announcements on May 10. RPR's initial offering includes five data layers related to residential market information: Median Estimated Property Value: Shows the median estimated value for properties in an area on the last day of the previous month. 12-Month Change in Median Estimated Property Value: Shows the change in median estimated value for properties in an area over the past year. Median Sold Price: Shows the median sales price for properties in an area that sold in the previous month. Median List Price: Shows the median list price for properties in an area that were in an active status on the last day of the previous month. Pending Listings: Shows the number of properties in an area that were in a pending status on the last day of the previous month. 12-Month Change in Median Estimated Property Value: Areas with the greatest increase in median value are shaded deep blue, while the greatest declines are deep red. Median Estimated Property Value: Clicking a geography reveals a data summary, to assist in interpreting the map, and next steps, such as generating a report. Other improvements are brighter, easier-to-interpret colors and dynamic legends. This means that the data breaks reset depending on the underlying data. In a coastal market, the estimated property value, for example, may range up to $20 million, but in the heartland range up to $5 million, which requires different breakpoints to be clear on the map. Panning the map will cause the legend and shading to change in reflection of that underlying data. The new map overlays became available in early May. They will replace an older map feature that was harder to interpret and updated less frequently. The overlays are not yet available in reports—that functionality is coming soon. RPR will consider additional data layers for the maps that REALTORS® will find useful, such as concentration of distressed properties and other layers that support prospecting for clients, or even third-party data sets such as climate risk data or mobile carrier coverage. And RPR continues to display on maps flood zone information and commercial real estate-related indicators, updated annually. To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

How Virtual Assistants Can Help Real Estate Agents Be More Productive
The life of a real estate agent can be hectic and demanding. Between juggling multiple clients, managing contracts and paperwork, and staying up-to-date on the latest trends and regulations, it's no wonder that agents often feel overwhelmed and stressed. That's where virtual assistants come in. With the help of virtual assistants, real estate agents can be more productive, organized, and efficient. Read on to find out how! What are virtual assistants? Virtual assistants (VAs) are independent contractors who help people or businesses with administrative, technical, or creative needs. Email replying, appointment setting, social media account management and even research are all tasks that VAs can assist with. Because VAs can be located anywhere in the world, they are able to accommodate your schedule and offer support even after regular business hours. How can virtual assistants help real estate agents? Virtual assistants can help real estate agents in a number of ways. Here are just a few examples: Administrative tasks - Administrative responsibilities for real estate agents frequently include managing paperwork, sending emails, and scheduling appointments. These tasks can take a lot of time, and they prevent agents from participating in other crucial tasks like client meetings and networking. Agents can focus on their primary responsibilities with more time by outsourcing these tasks to a VA. Marketing and social media - Social media and marketing are essential to the success of any real estate company. However, setting up and running social media platforms can be a full-time job in and of itself. Agents can get assistance from a VA with tasks like designing marketing materials, managing advertising campaigns, and writing social media posts. Client communication - Real estate agents must stay in constant contact with their clients, responding to inquiries, giving them updates, and setting up appointments. A virtual assistant can assist agents in managing client communication and ensuring that clients are given accurate and timely information. As a result, clients will be more satisfied and agents will be able to develop stronger relationships with them. Research and data analysis - The most recent market trends, laws, and business news must be known to real estate agents. But it can take a lot of time and energy to conduct research and analyze data. A VA can assist agents by gathering information, compiling reports and presentations, and conducting research. Lead generation and follow-up - Generating leads and following up with potential clients is a critical part of any real estate business. However, it can also be one of the most time-consuming tasks. A VA can support agents by managing lead databases, researching leads, and producing follow-up emails or calls. Well, what are the benefits of using a virtual assistant? There are many benefits to using a virtual assistant as a real estate agent: In conclusion, virtual assistants can be a valuable asset to real estate agents. By outsourcing administrative tasks, marketing, client communication, research and data analysis, lead generation, and more to a VA, agents can be more productive, organized, and efficient. Additionally, using a virtual assistant can reduce stress and workload, save costs, provide flexibility, and scale with the growth of your business. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog. Further Reading Detailed Guide to Hiring an Assistant for Your Real Estate Business Is a Virtual Real Estate Assistant the Right Fit for Your Scaling Strategy?

Real Estate Lingo: Are Your Listing Descriptions Attracting Buyers?
Real estate terms in listing descriptions can be confusing to would-be buyers, who may find themselves thinking and re-thinking every real estate listing. Though the property may be exactly as mentioned, descriptive write-ups are subjective and often contain confusing catchphrases to lure in the consumer. There are better ways to capture attention and provide useful meaningful information. Here's how to help your seller get their home sold quicker and get buyers to embrace everything about their potential new home. "The one you've been waiting for" It is said that there is a buyer for every house. Buyers want to check off important boxes before committing to purchase a property. Help buyers decide on whether or not the home is the one they have been waiting for by backing up your Realtor terminology and allowing them to connect and engage through 3D virtual tours. Virtual tours benefit the buyer and remove the waiting period to view a property by providing online access 24 hours a day. "Lovingly cared for" and "pride of ownership" Your seller wants you to showcase their property and be proud of the way they have taken care of it. Using the "pride of ownership" real estate term announces the aesthetic of the home but you can showcase the property in its entirety through immersive 3D tours combined with 360° images and floor plans. Show your seller that you are proud to represent their home by using tools like iGUIDE® that encompass everything you need to market a property. "Exudes character" You help a home exude character through staging. Virtually staging a home can make a floor plan come to life. Homebuyers often want to picture their furniture within a property to see if suits the character they are looking for. The National Association of Realtors reports that more than 82 percent of buyer's agents said staging helps buyers visualize the property as potentially being theirs. "Exudes character" is one real estate term that you can breathe life into with staging. You can virtually create realistic lighting, intriguing potential floor plan renovations and alternate colours. "Move-in ready" The real estate term "move-in ready" may not always describe a seller's property in the eyes of potential buyers. For a home to be ready to move into, first the buyer must be able to understand the fit and flow of every space. Advanced measurement allows buyers to prepare for potential construction changes while avoiding costly "guesstimates" for things like painting, new cabinets and flooring replacement. Capturing accurate numbers in 3D space helps get any home ready for move-in day or renovation day. "Priced to sell" and "motivated sellers" Your seller wants to get their home sold with the least amount of hassle in the quickest amount of time. All sellers want to sell, otherwise, why would they go through the motions of placing their home on the market? But when you select the term "priced to sell" and "motivated sellers," you send a message to the consumer that sellers will consider all offers even though the listing price is already low. When these tactics don't seem to be working, it will benefit you to examine your analytics to see how many online visits the property is getting. Valuable insight is gained when you can see where your referrals are being generated over time. Sharing the information with the seller can help them understand when the listing price is not driving interest. Analyzing how many visits to the listing and the duration of each visit help to redirect your marketing efforts to get the home sold. "Original owners" Does the real estate term "original owner" have any effect on selling the house? This term is meant to form a connection between the buyer and seller. However, forming an emotional connection with the house can be achieved through information. Immersive 3D tours and floor plans get the consumer to interact with the home. Viewers can navigate from room to room or floor to floor to fully investigate every space. When it's a connection you want, help the buyer connect the dots between 2D and 3D spaces to gain a deeper understanding of the whole house. Once a connection is formed, it won't matter if there have been one or 100 owners before them. "As-is, where-is" The "as-is, where-is" real estate term is often a red flag that the property has structural or mechanical issues—a sort of "enter at your own risk" purchase. Many of these types of properties have great potential to improve the floor plan or complete a renovation. But it is definitely "buyer beware" when making an offer. A few real estate terms can give you a snapshot picture of a property. But if you want to give the whole picture, you need accurate measurements, floor plans, 3D virtual tours and 360° images. All the information, every time for every listing. To view the original article, visit the iGuide blog.

The Benefits of Notification Systems on Real Estate Websites
Notification systems are automated tools that allow real estate websites to notify clients about newly listed properties that match their preferences. With the help of an auto-notification system, clients can be kept up-to-date on new listings, price drops, and other updates in real-time. In this article, we will explore the benefits of having notification systems on real estate websites and how they can help improve customer experience. Real estate website notifications can provide numerous benefits for your customers: 1. Keeps Your Customers Informed With notification systems, clients can specify their search criteria, and the system will automatically notify them when a property that matches their requirements is listed. This helps clients focus on properties that are relevant to their needs. 2. Boosts Engagement Notification systems help to keep clients engaged with the real estate website. By providing clients with relevant updates, they are more likely to visit the website frequently, increasing engagement levels. This, in turn, helps real estate agents to convert more leads into sales. 3. Increases Customer Satisfaction Notification systems can improve customer satisfaction levels by keeping clients informed about new listings. Clients feel more involved in the buying process and are more likely to trust the agent. This, in turn, can lead to positive reviews, referrals, and repeat business. 4. Improves Conversion Rates Notification systems can improve conversion rates for real estate websites by enhancing the customer experience. By understanding clients preferences, agents can build stronger relationships with their audience, which helps to build trust between the agent and the client. As a result, clients are more likely to make a purchase, and agents can increase their chances of closing a deal. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

Tech Leaders Share Insights at 2023 REALTORS Legislative Meetings
Tech leaders took the stage at the 2023 REALTORS® Legislative Meetings to discuss existing innovations and trends to help real estate agents level up their businesses. Several hundred Realtors® attended Tuesday's "Emerging Business Issues and Technology Forum," which provided insight into technologies that help agents maximize their presence on social media, streamline marketing, and attract and retain clients. Alex Montalenti, co-founder of Real Grader, covered the importance of branding and having a well-curated social media presence. Real Grader measures, manages and maximizes the digital presence of real estate professionals. When asked about the most important thing that real estate agents should do when it comes to their social presence, Montalenti said that after setting up all social accounts, it is vital to connect with your sphere. "Find your clients on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn and connect with them," he said. "Once you've set that connection, they will follow your relationship and journey for years. With social media, you have the ability to keep in touch and stay top of mind." Mark Choey, founder of Highnote, spoke about the importance of streamlining the process of building presentations. Highnote is a drag-and-drop presentation and proposal platform that helps agents pitch and sell listings, offers, neighborhoods and themselves. "Agents need great presentations, and they need them fast," he said. "An effective presentation is the lifeblood of all great real estate agents." Glenn Shimkus, founder and CEO of Prisidio, discussed the importance of organizing and safely managing all types of vital documents and information. Prisidio provides consumers with a digital vault to capture and securely share the most important information with the key people in their lives. When asked about tips for people interested in this type of software but who are unsure how to get started, Shimkus encouraged the audience to take things one step at a time. "It's all about tiny habits," he said. "We want to enable you – in quick bursts – to go in and get organized. When you break everything up into little chunks, you will be amazed at how quickly you can be ready, prepared and have peace of mind." Prisidio, Highnote and Real Grader were all recently accepted to the 2023 REACH program, a technology scale-up program created by Second Century Ventures, NAR's strategic investment arm. In another Tuesday session at the REALTORS® Legislative Meetings, real estate industry expert Marki Lemons Ryhal shared valuable insights and practical tips about how real estate agents can leverage artificial intelligence technologies to enhance efficiency, productivity and reach in their businesses. Her session, entitled "How AI is Transforming the Real Estate Industry," highlighted the capabilities of ChatGPT, an advanced language model developed by OpenAI, describing it as a "productive, electrifying, trained assistant." She also provided an overview of Canva's AI tools, including text-to-image generation and a translation tool that can convert text within a design to more than 100 languages. Lemons Ryhal explained how these technologies are enabling real estate professionals to create engaging and visually appealing marketing materials while catering to a diverse clientele. She shared that many agents use AI tools to write real estate descriptions but stressed these tools are not perfect, and proofreading content remains crucial. "We still have to adhere to license law, the Realtor® Code of Ethics, and fair housing rules and regulations," Lemons Ryhal said.

Enter RPR's 'How's the Market' Video Contest
Leverage Shareable Market Trends to show off your real estate expertise and for a chance to win! RPR (Realtors Property Resource®) is excited to announce the introduction of Shareable Market Trends! This powerful new feature will help REALTORS® provide hyper-local market insights to their clients and prospects in just a few clicks. The charts, graphs and stats can easily be shared to social media channels, or saved or copied as an image file for all of your marketing touchpoints — such as attention-grabbing videos! That's why RPR is promoting a How's the Market? Video Contest. We want to see what you've got! Put new Shareable Market Trends into action with our video contest! RPR is giving away prizes and all you have to do is create a 30-second or longer self-promotional video that includes RPR Market Trends data to enter the contest. Head over to this page for details about the contest guidelines, submission deadlines and judging criteria. Here's what's up for grabs: First place: a VISA Gift Card worth $250 Second place: a VISA Gift Card worth $150 Third place: a VISA Gift Card worth $75 Fourth Place: One (1) RPR T-Shirt or one (1) RPR water bottle (winner's choice) See official rules for more info. Everybody wins when you create informative, engaging video content. We look forward to your participation in this contest and can't wait to see the amazing content you create using RPR's Shareable Market Trends! To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

Who Owns Your Content: You or OpenAI?
You hear a lot of things at real estate conferences. A notion Marilyn Wilson most recently heard while at NAR REALTOR Legislative Meetings was that OpenAI, creators of ChatGPT, owns the content that you provide them. As someone extremely interested in most things AI, I immediately did some research. Where did I start? Naturally, OpenAI's Terms of Use – Section 3. The important details are summarized below: (a) Your Content. You may provide input to the Services ("Input"), and receive output generated and returned by the Services based on the Input ("Output"). Input and Output are collectively "Content." As between the parties and to the extent permitted by applicable law, you own all Input. Subject to your compliance with these Terms, OpenAI hereby assigns to you all its right, title and interest in and to Output. This means you can use Content for any purpose, including commercial purposes such as sale or publication, if you comply with these Terms. OpenAI may use Content to provide and maintain the Services, comply with applicable law, and enforce our policies. You are responsible for Content, including for ensuring that it does not violate any applicable law or these Terms. The blue portion very clearly states that the user owns both the input and the output. But it also says, "OpenAI may use Content to provide and maintain the Services, comply with applicable law, and enforce our policies." So what does that mean? Great question – it depends on where you live. OpenAI's ChatGPT has become an international sensation, so it really depends on your location and what the laws are in your area. Interestingly noted in this article on JDSupra, OpenAI may not have the right to assign all these rights to you. It should be noted that OpenAI only assigns all "its" right, title, and interest in and to the output to the user. However, if OpenAI does not initially own the rights, it cannot assign them. Another related issue is that other ChatGPT users can narrow the assignment scope. OpenAI's Terms of Use state that due to the nature of machine learning, many users may receive identical or similar outputs from ChatGPT.³ This leads to another set of issues, including determining original ownership rights (if available), the potential destruction of ownership rights over time, and murky usage rights in the future. Unsurprisingly, who owns the rights to the content is as clear as mud. But what we do know is that the content is probably not considered intellectual property (IP) if it was exclusively generated by AI. A certain amount of the content must be created by a human. Of course, this begs another question: what's the difference? For example, I took this article and had ChatGPT proofread it (oh, the irony). So most of this article was written by a human, but all of it is considered output. The key takeaway is simple: OpenAI probably has no rights to any content, be it input or output, when you use their platform. They may, however, use your content to make their services better. To view the original article, visit the WAV Group blog.

How to Find the Best Client Matches for Your Agent Business
There are a surprising number of moving parts that come together to create the perfect agent — client match and, hopefully, a long-term relationship that spans the years to come. Whether it's organic or with lead gen software, finding quality leads who are ready to buy or sell is key to your agent business. But afterward, it's your selling style as an agent that comes into play — as well as the buying style of your lead-turned-client. And of course, these factors can vary over time. Below, we'll explore the specifics of figuring out your style as an agent and applying it to your brand, figuring out the buying/selling style of your clients, and merging both factors to achieve a perfect balance in your business. Your agent style Before we get into the types of ideal clients that are out there, it's important to have a firm grasp on your own selling style as an agent. That way, you can define your brand and attract like-minded clients accordingly. This is made of two parts: what you want, and what you offer. What you want Consider your agent goals. Take timelines, for example. Do you want to work as quickly as possible? Is your working style more laidback and client-led, or do you lean more toward taking the reins? If you're a new agent, this can take some time to figure out. What you offer In addition to what you want, what can you offer? No matter what, emphasizing the quality of your services is key to making sure your clients are confident that you can help them find what they're looking for, with as little stress as possible. Providing a high quality of service — in terms of timely responses and clear, simple transaction processes — will help immensely in defining your brand and business. Overall, knowing what you want in a client helps to set up a solid foundation for strong agent-client relationships, moving forward. Your ideal client's style Working with people means working with a variety of styles, and real estate is no different. A client's buying/selling style depends on their personality, of course, as well as their interests and goals based on two things: the current life stage they're in, and the investment they're looking to make. Life stages Buyers and sellers come from a wide range of stages in life. This could be based on where they're at in terms of career, which ranges from young professionals to retirees and everyone in between. It could also be based on family: young couples, new families, established families, empty nesters — and again, those in between. Each group of clients will have a different set of priorities and timeline expectations. Exploring and understanding those expectations will make for a smooth transaction and connection. Investment goals In any life stage, clients seek different kinds of investments when buying new properties. They might be looking to rent out their property as a landlord or looking for a short- or long-term rental. They might relocate regularly for work or other reasons or be ready to keep the property for a longer span of time. This might be their second home, to be bought as an investment in the market. It could even be a luxury home — a higher-end investment. As an agent, this is the main factor you can use to pinpoint the types of clients and properties you want to work with. A perfect match Overall, finding the best match between an agent and a client, especially when you start out or if you're rebranding your business, is made up of a balance between what you want as an agent and what your clients want as their end goal. Make sure your brand aligns with these things and then convey it through your website, ads, and showing materials, and you'll attract like-minded leads that foster reliable relationships in no time. To view the original article, visit the Lone Wolf blog.

4 Real Estate Marketing Trends
In every industry, there is always a "next big thing," and keeping up with them can feel overwhelming. As a whole, the real estate sector is not exempt from these shifts. New technologies regularly emerge, as do new trends, but few live up to their hype. However, in recent times, the transition has been towards personalization. Personalizing your real estate marketing helps target the right real estate clients and also helps you understand strategies and trends that work. Today's consumers know exactly what they want, and you want to ensure that you not only match demand but also that what you provide is what they are looking for. Here are key methods or techniques to personalize marketing trends for your target audience. 1. QR Codes and QR Code Generators Develop a content marketing strategy to get inbound leads. Content marketing is today's most effective real estate marketing strategy, allowing organizations to reach out directly to their audience. The introduction of QR code generator apps for real estate professionals has made the process even more accessible and more effective. Now, real estate agents can embed a plethora of marketing information in QR codes, which provides extensive information to users without making it look too chunky to read or understand. In fact, QR codes immediately grab the attention of curious users who will be keen to find out about the information hidden within the code. Realtyna's QR Code generator app is designed to help real estate professionals generate codes for their marketing campaigns without hassle. 2. Use SEO to Boost the Ranking of Your Property Websites To keep your real estate website in search results, it is essential to use SEO to boost your website ranking on popular search engines. With single property websites, you will be able to: Showcase more photos Add videos Include detailed descriptions Properly optimize your listing for search engines Build brand awareness, and more Additionally, using SEO to boost your property website gives you more information about the customer while providing the much needed site traffic. 3. Create Video Tours to Remotely Showcase Real Estate Listings Realtors can now create video tours of their real estate listings and post them on websites, YouTube, TikTok, and other media platforms to capture the attention of potential clients. Video marketing not only provides a more intuitive approach, but videos have been proven to offer better conversion than images. 4. Post on Social Media to Boost Engagement It is no secret that social media is one of the most instrumental solutions to digital marketing. So as real estate professionals, it is vital to effectively create accounts and use all these platforms to market your business or services. You can post videos, photos, infographics, share real estate tips, etc., to draw more leads and engagements to your business profile and, eventually, your website. These are all smart trends to adopt as part of your real estate marketing strategy. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

Majority of Realtors Find Value in Promoting Energy Efficiency in Listings, Says NAR
A majority (63%) of agents and brokers said promoting energy efficiency in listings is very or somewhat valuable, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®. The 2023 REALTORS® and Sustainability Report – Residential examines sustainability issues facing the real estate industry. "While each area of the country has a unique climate and community resources, Realtors® are finding the need to embrace their clients' sustainability interests," said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research. "Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers." Half of Realtors® said they were directly involved with a property with green features – on the buyer or seller side – in the past 12 months. Thirty-two percent of agents and brokers reported that their multiple listing service had green data fields, 37% of which used those fields to promote green features, 24% to promote energy information and 14% to promote green certifications. Almost half (48%) of agents and brokers found that consumers were very or somewhat interested in sustainability. Nearly one-third (32%) of Realtors® were concerned about the effects of climate change events on the real estate market. New to the report this year, nearly one-fifth (17%) of respondents said a significant portion (between one-quarter to more than three-quarters) of their clients consider environmental risk in the purchase process. In addition, 14% of agents and brokers had clients ask for advice about energy efficiency upgrades very often or often. When it comes to a high-performance home – defined as a systematic, building-science approach to home improvements that can increase indoor comfort, health, operational efficiency and durability – approximately one-fifth (17%) of Realtors® said those had an increase of 1%-10% of the dollar value offered compared to similar, non-high-performance homes. "The first words of the Realtor® Code of Ethics are simple, yet powerful, and well understood by members: 'Under all is the land,'" said NAR President Kenny Parcell, a Realtor® from Spanish Fork, Utah, and broker-owner of Equity Real Estate Utah. "Good stewardship of the land – and the built environment – is critical to the real estate industry. Realtors® who can speak with authority about a home's sustainable features and convey the value, health benefits, energy savings, durability and operation costs provide a major advantage in every market." The green home features that Realtors® believed were most important to clients, include windows, doors and siding (39%); proximity to frequently visited places (37%); a comfortable living space (37%); and a home's utility bills and operating costs (25%). In terms of sustainability issues and considerations in their market, agents and brokers mostly listed understanding how solar panels impact a transaction (35%), understanding lending options for energy upgrades or solar installations (33%) and valuation of solar panels on homes (32%). Notably, other green issues and considerations in Realtors®' markets include a lack of MLS data about home performance and/or solar installations (25%), improving the energy efficiency of existing housing stock (24%), valuation of green-certified homes (19%), liability of misrepresenting a property with green features (18%), inability to search for green properties (12%) and the impact of climate change events on the transaction (9%). Access the 2023 REALTORS® and Sustainability Report – Residential online here.

Understanding the Role of a Transaction Coordinator
Real estate transactions can be tedious. In most, if not all instances, a real estate transaction needs multiple people in order for it to be completed. One of the essential players in this process is a transaction coordinator. Here, we'll explore the role of a transaction coordinator and the importance of having one in your team. What are the main responsibilities of a transaction coordinator? A transaction coordinator's main duty is to make sure that all required paperwork and legal documents are completed accurately and on time. They examine contracts, addenda, and other documents to make sure they adhere to all applicable state and federal laws as well as the needs of the parties involved. Timelines and deadlines related to the transaction, such as inspection windows, appraisal contingencies, and loan deadlines, are also managed by transaction coordinators. They make sure that everyone is aware of these deadlines and complies with them. Scheduling and organizing appointments for property inspections is another duty of transaction coordinators. They communicate with appraisers, inspectors, and other experts to make sure they have access to the property and can finish their work on schedule. Additionally, transaction coordinators make sure that all parties are informed of any updates or modifications to the transaction. They coordinate the flow of information between the parties and respond to any queries that crop up along the way. Why might you need a transaction coordinator? Real estate transactions involve a lot of paperwork, timelines, and deadlines that can be overwhelming for those involved. This is where a transaction coordinator comes in. They help streamline the process, reduce the risks of errors and omissions, and ensure that the transaction is completed on time and within budget. Having a transaction coordinator on your team provides many benefits, such as: 1. Reducing the risk of errors and omissions: Transaction coordinators are experts in real estate transactions and have an eye for detail. They make sure that all required paperwork is correctly completed, minimizing the possibility of mistakes or omissions that might cause the transaction to be delayed or derailed. 2. Saving time: To free up the time of other professionals involved in the transaction, transaction coordinators oversee the timelines and deadlines related to the transaction. This enables them to concentrate on their primary duties, which include marketing the property, negotiating the deal, and offering legal counsel. 3. Improving communication: In order to improve communication and lower the possibility of misunderstandings, transaction coordinators serve as a point of contact for all parties involved in the transaction. They make sure that everyone is aware of any updates or changes and keep everyone up to date on the transaction's progress. 4. Ensuring compliance: Real estate transactions are subject to state and federal regulations that must be complied with. Transaction coordinators make sure that all required paperwork and legal documents are in compliance because they are experts in these rules. 5. Providing peace of mind: Having a transaction coordinator on your team provides peace of mind, knowing that the transaction is being managed by an expert. This frees you up to concentrate on other elements of the deal, like selling the property or negotiating the terms. ... and much, much more! A transaction coordinator is an essential player in the real estate industry. Their expertise in managing real estate transactions can help streamline the process, reduce the risks of errors and omissions, and ensure that the transaction is completed on time and within budget. Having a transaction coordinator on your team provides peace of mind, knowing that the transaction is being managed by an expert, and allows you to focus on other aspects of the transaction, such as marketing the property or negotiating the deal. If you are looking to buy or sell a property, it is essential to have a transaction coordinator on your team to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

On the Road Again! Meet the Folks from Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity at an Upcoming Conference
Conference and convention season has begun! Later this week, the 2023 Realtors Legislative Meetings and Trade Show will be in Washington DC, May 6-11, with Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity at Booth 515. At this conference – and throughout the year – thousands of real estate agents and brokers who use Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity will have the opportunity to meet some of the friendly folks who make the magic happen for these two Florida Realtors® wholly-owned operations in person. The schedule for the next few months includes attending or exhibiting at gatherings in Austin, Norfolk, Atlanta, Orlando, and Miami Beach. And in case you are unfamiliar with them, here's some background information about Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity. Tech Helpline As real estate's number one tech support firm, Tech Helpline began 20 years ago as a service for members of Florida Realtors. Known for its no-nonsense technical advice and warm, friendly customer service, Tech Helpline rapidly grew by offering its service to other REALTOR associations and organizations, multiple listing services (MLSs), and real estate brokerage firms. Tech Helpline is the real estate industry's No. 1 tech support service, available to nearly half the Realtors in North America – with 750,000 members, 16 state associations, and 68 local associations and organizations in the US and Canada. Form Simplicity Form Simplicity serves the real estate industry by providing real estate professionals with an end-to-end, digital real estate transaction management solution to expedite real estate transactions to create more deals and less paperwork. Form Simplicity gives real estate agents and brokers the tools to create, manage, share, and store transactions digitally in the cloud, the key to fully digital transactions. In addition, users can create and edit transactions on mobile devices. Form Simplicity's cloud-based platform is a cost-effective solution for Realtor associations, MLS systems, and brokerage firms nationwide. Opportunities to connect in person After this year's NAR Legislative Meetings and Trade Show in DC, you'll find representatives from either one or both organizations at the following upcoming events from May to August 2023: June 18 - 21, 2023 – Austin, TX. Gathering of Eagles: Gathering of Eagles brings together the nation's most elite brokerage, association, and team leaders, C-suite leaders, and top-producing agents to grow, network, and set the pace for what's next in our industry. If you're attending, you'll note that your friends from Form Simplicity make your WiFi possible! July 15 - 18, 2023 – Norfolk, VA. Regional AE Conference – RAEC 2023: The Regional Association Executives Conference is an education-packed event that brings together Association Executives from Georgia, North Carolina, Alabama, South Carolina, and Virginia. Attendees can connect with over 100 association executives and association department heads attending this three-day education and networking event. Look for the Form Simplicity and Tech Helpline exhibitor's table. August 4 – 7, 2023 – Atlanta, GA. 2023 ASAE Annual Meeting & Exposition: The 2023 ASAE Annual Meeting is where thousands of association professionals and industry partners gather to exchange knowledge, resources, strategies, solutions, and more. Over three days of learning, growing, and finding inspiration, attendees are equipped with a year's worth of support in their daily responsibilities as leaders in the association industry. Be on the lookout for Jessica Smith, Sales and Client Services Manager, who is attending and representing Tech Helpline. August 16 – 17, 2023 – Orlando, FL. Florida Realtors Convention & Trade Expo: If you want to meet most of the team that runs Form Simplicity and Tech Helpline in person, this is the one event to attend! Florida Realtors is the largest state Realtor Association, and this is our biggest event of the year. You can't miss us, as our exhibit is in the main hallway of the hotel's convention center. It is known as "The Premiere Event for Serious Realtors." August 29 – 30, 2023 – Miami Beach, FL. NAR iOi Summit – Innovation, Opportunity, Investment: At the fifth annual iOi Summit, more than 700 PropTech leaders and futurists, investors, and forward-thinking real estate professionals are coming together to fuel the future of the industry. PropTech is driving transformation in real estate, and, at iOi, will have all hands-on technology — talking, touching, and testing life-changing innovations that tackle the industry's critical issues and most significant problems. The iOi Summit is the intersection of where technology and real estate meet. More to come Stay tuned for a fall update on the conventions, conferences, and meetings where Form Simplicity and Tech Helpline will be in full force. Remember, if you happen to be attending one of these events, please stop by and bring your questions about Form Simplicity and Tech Helpline. The team is excited to meet you face-to-face! Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns and operates Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.

[Podcast] Using Attraction Marketing with Jess Lenouvel
Jess Lenouvel is a business and marketing real estate coach and founder of The Listings Lab. She's been a real estate agent for over 13 years and has personally built a multiple seven-figure business that sold over $300 million of property in under five years. In this episode of Real Talk, with Realtors, hear Jess share how attraction marketing can help your real estate business, the nine-point psychology journey from stranger to client, how to avoid over-systematizing your marketing too early, the most underutilized social media platform for Realtors, and how to switch from selling real estate to coaching. This episode covers everything from efficient systems to TikTok for Realtors. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: How did Jess switch from real estate selling to real estate coaching? What is attraction marketing? How does it become a listing conversation? What is nine-point psychology? How would you advise someone in their first year as a Realtor? When should you start using paid ads? How should you use hashtags on Instagram? Is Instagram becoming like Facebook? Connect with Jess on Instagram at @JessLenouvel and her book More Money, Less Hustle on Amazon. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

How to Turn SEO into a Major Source of Lead Generation
Every real estate agent's goal is to have a steady flow of leads without making hundreds of cold calls. Lead generation is vital for real estate business success. As a professional in the industry, to achieve long-term goals, it is essential to have an effective, up-to-date strategy and tools to help you generate consistent organic leads. Today, we are going to talk about how you can use SEO as a major source for generating real estate leads. Why Is SEO Important for Real Estate Websites? Like everything else, people search for homes online before getting in touch with a professional. You want your real estate website to rank among the top sites that show up in the search results during these searches. ​​Having a high-performing website, making sure you are visible in local searches, and listing your business on major real estate platforms is the way to go. A solid online presence establishes credibility for your business while attracting more leads. If you're not visible online, your business will be missing big time on potential clients or new leads. That is why effective SEO should be a part of your overall marketing strategy. Without this, clients might find it challenging to locate your website, hence low conversion rates. SEO for Real Estate Lead Generation Your real estate brand's visibility on Google and other search engines is highly dependent on how your website is optimized. Real estate agents should learn how to use SEO to engage prospects through organic search results and how real estate websites can boost their SEO and improve their visibility across the web. So, without further ado, let's discuss how real estate agents can leverage search engine optimization as a major lead generation source. Claim Your Google My Business Listing A Google My Business listing helps target users in your local area. This means that when potential clients search terms related to your business, your website will be among those that show up on the local area business map. This is one of the first steps to ensure that your business appears on the knowledge panel of Google search, Google SERPs, and the Google 3-Pack. Now, how do you claim your Google My Business listing? Head over to Google My Business and create a real estate business profile. Next, list all other details about your business, such as your business name, address, and business phone number. Always make sure that these three details are consistent across all your other social network accounts. When your GMB account is verified, you can also create citation accounts on Yelp, Facebook, Yellow Pages, etc. This ensures that when users search for real estate listings or agents on any of these platforms instead of Google, you still appear in the results. Blogging Leverage your website's blog and create city/area-specific content. Organized and informative city-specific content can be beneficial to your marketing funnel. For example, you can create blogs detailing important information about neighborhoods, cost of living, security, and other amenities in your city to properly guide your users around your sales funnel to make a better decision. If you provide useful information to people during their research stage, chances are that they are likely to come back to you and trust you when they are in the decision stage. Keywords Competition and volume play an essential role in attracting more leads. So if you are not sure about what to write in your blogs, make sure to research niche-specific keywords and other keywords related to your line of business to attract more organic traffic. Schema Markups This is a more technical SEO practice. These are snippets of code that indicate to Google how you want your website pages displayed on SERPs. There are several types of codes applicable to this technique. By using schema markups for local real estate businesses, you are helping Google's crawlers know what type of business you are, your work hours, reviews, and more. Pages that use schema markups have higher click-through rates—and as a real estate professional, this is essential for lead generation. Final Thoughts With the high level of competition in the real estate industry, professionals have to get more creative with their lead generation strategies. A real estate SEO plan that incorporates these tactics will yield the best results. To view the original article, visit the Realtyna blog.

NAR Announces 2023 Fair Housing Champion Award Winners
The National Association of Realtors and Realtor.com honored three winners of the Fair Housing Champion Awards during NAR's Fair Housing Month event, "At What Price? Overcoming Barriers to Homeownership." Honorees received recognition for their efforts to widen homeownership access in their communities. With the Fair Housing Champion Award, Realtors® are recognized for going above and beyond to promote fair housing and increase homeownership in underserved communities. Sponsored by Realtor.com®, the Award provides a $5,000 prize that winners can dedicate to a housing-related nonprofit organization of their choice. "In every ZIP code in America, NAR is dedicated to fostering the development of thriving, inclusive communities," said NAR President Kenny Parcell. "Affordability and fair housing are the biggest challenges facing the real estate industry today and I am so proud of all the work our winners have put in to increase access to homeownership. They have set an example of leadership and I hope their work will motivate others to take action." This year's winners: Abra Barnes is the broker-owner of Barnes & Associates, REALTORS® in Birmingham, Alabama. The brokerage is a full-service firm assisting with residential sales, commercial sales and leasing, investor coaching, new construction marketing and acquisitions. Barnes & Associates is also passionate about working in low- to moderate-income areas in Birmingham, empowering clients with the knowledge they need to purchase real estate and build generational wealth. Although Barnes' 41 agents' focus is residential real estate, Barnes primary focus is commercial real estate. She works with affordable housing developers, nonprofits, and fledgling business owners who are seeking their first brick-and-mortar space. Barnes helped raise awareness of the lingering effects of past discrimination as executive producer of "Lenders, Landlords, and the Law: A Fair Housing Reflection on Diversity and Inclusion." Sofia Crisp is the executive director at Housing Consultants Group in Greensboro and High Point, North Carolina. Crisp, a 30-year veteran in the business and 2023 president of the Greensboro Regional REALTORS® Association, leverages her industry knowledge and community connections to build bridges to homeownership. She operates HCG as a nonprofit brokerage working with the city of Greensboro, nonprofit organizations, lenders, and a nonprofit builder to help clients get into new homes at an affordable cost. Frank J. Williams is the managing director of F.J. Williams Realty in Chicago, Illinois. Williams has been a fierce advocate for fair housing legislation on the state and local level where he believes fair housing isn't just about integrating neighborhoods—it's also about integrating the industry. He was president of the Southside Chicago chapter of the NAACP from 1979 to 1985, president of the Chicago Association of REALTORS® in 1989, CAR REALTOR® of the Year in 1992, and an inductee into the CAR Hall of Fame in 2017. Williams opened his real estate brokerage on the southwest side of Chicago in January 1971 where he continues his crusade as a broker, educator and leader today. "Discrimination and a lack of housing affordability disproportionately impact marginalized communities and that makes it harder for many individuals to gain access to homeownership and start building generational wealth," said Realtor.com® Chief Marketing Officer Mickey Neuberger. "Reator.com® applauds these Fair Housing Champions for their progress towards ensuring greater fair housing access for everyone and embodying the core values of our "To Each Their Home" tagline by helping close the homeownership gap." See more information and read more about the award winners here.

Real Estate Phenomenon: Ben Caballero sets new $3 billion home sales record
Ben Caballero, the No. 1-ranked real estate agent in the U.S. since 2013 by RealTrends and a three-time Guinness World Record title holder, has set another extraordinary milestone. In 2022, Caballero individually sold an unprecedented $3 billion in home sales. As the CEO and Founder of HomesUSA.com, Caballero is a new home sales expert who works directly with 60-plus builders in Houston, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Austin, and San Antonio. He is the current Guinness Worlds Record title holder for "Most annual home sales transactions through MLS by an individual sell side real estate agent – current." Caballero's journey to this extraordinary achievement began in 2015 when he became the first real estate agent to exceed $1 billion in total home sales. He then went on to break the $2 billion mark in a single year, not once but three times in 2018, 2019, and 2020. With his 2022 sale volume of $3,060,878,784 billion, Caballero raises the bar again and continues to hold the record for the highest annual home sales by an individual agent. Ben Caballero first earned the Guinness World Record holder title for 2016 with 3,556 verified home sales. He set a new record in 2018 with 5,801 home sales and again in 2020 with 6,438 home sales, amounting to more than $2.46 billion in sales volume. In 2022, his total homes sales included 6178 transaction sides. Reflecting on his extraordinary accomplishment, Caballero said, "If you had told me I would break the $3 billion sales barrier at the beginning of last year, I would not have believed you. Until mid-spring, 2022 started very slowly because builders were selling homes from a waiting list so fast that many new homes were sold before they could be listed on the MLS," he explained. But Caballero said higher priced homes combined with a market shift caused new home sales to accelerate throughout the markets he serves in Texas. "The best new home market in the U.S. is Texas and continues to be Texas. So, becoming a Texan is arguably the best business decision I ever made," he added. Recognized as the world's most productive real estate agent, Caballero has sold more homes than any other individual or team annually since 2016, as reported by leading industry research. From 2004 to 2022, he amassed over 54,000 home sales, totaling more than $20 billion in volume. Caballero's new record translates to an astonishing $8.39 million worth of home sales per day. He averages nearly 17 home sales every single day of the year. Caballero, an innovative trailblazer in the industry, developed HomesUSA.com's proprietary SaaS listings management and marketing platform to optimize efficiency for his production builder clients. He attributes his record-setting production to this cutting-edge technology and is preparing to launch a new API-driven single-entry platform for production builders soon. Caballero became a broker at 21 and was a builder for 18 years. He launched his SaaS and cloud-based platform in 2007.

Text Etiquette: The Do's and Don'ts When Texting
Texting has emerged as the "go-to" communication tool for real estate agents and their clients. Six years ago, the National Association of Realtors put texting as the third most popular form of client communication, behind email and telephone. The most recent NAR study shows texting is now the No. 1 way agents connect with their clients (93%), topping telephone and email communications. More importantly, agents texting past clients and prospects have grown more than 25% since 2016. Because texting is efficient, quick, and convenient, it often is the most effective way for agents to engage with their clients and co-workers. But sending a text can sometimes be fraught with risks. And while texting is especially vital to Millennials – who open their text messages about 98% of the time versus 20% of emails being opened – an unwanted or unsolicited text can cause an immediate and adverse reaction. Real estate agents must also be aware of TCPA: Telephone Consumer Protection Act. This Federal law protects consumer privacy rights. It was created to limit both annoying and unwanted telephone calls and texts. Here's a quick primer on texting etiquette – some of the essential dos and don'ts you should follow when texting. The Do's Do remain professional: The best overall texting rule in real estate is to maintain a professional demeanor. When texting a client for the first time, start by identifying yourself and explaining why you are texting them. Use short and complete sentences versus abbreviations or text lingo until you can observe their texting style. Also, hold off on using emojis unless you know the recipient well. Once you have begun a text exchange and see their style, you can determine if you should loosen up a little. Most importantly, be mindful of the time (and their time zone) and unless there's a compelling reason, keep your text exchanges limited to business hours. Not all clients are keen on receiving texts late at night or early in the morning unless they expressly permit you. A best practice is establishing text boundaries with clients in advance when discussing the best ways to reach them and for them to reach you. Do keep texts short and on-topic: When texting prospects or past clients, it's essential to keep your text messages brief. They are more likely to be read and remembered versus deleted. Texts should never be lengthy – that's the job of an email or phone call. If you have a lot to say, put it all in an email and if it's important, send a short text making sure they read the email you just sent. They will appreciate that approach. Otherwise, you also risk that they will lose interest. Also, remember to use their name in a text; it can be powerful to share something you know about them, such as a birthday or anniversary note. Finally, if you expect a response, you must end your message with a question. That's how to get most people to respond. Do send targeted updates and links: Since you're likely sending clients emails – perhaps suggested listings or requests for document review – feel free to text them a link to a relevant video or article about the community they are shopping. They will feel like you are giving them inside information and special attention for what they want. Potential homebuyers will also be intrigued by a digital walkthrough of a listing, especially if you send them a personalized tour shot on your smartphone and use their name(s) throughout it. Do reply ASAP: Texting is an immediate form of communication: it comes across as more urgent than a phone call or email. Clients who text you during the business hours you've established will expect a quick response. Even if you are busy, it's better to text back sooner than later out of politeness. Otherwise, they might think you are ignoring them. Do provide opt-in and opt-out opportunities: If you are using text to share more general versus individual-specific information, give recipients the option to opt into receiving texts when needed. This is especially true when promoting an event like an open house. If you plan to text them regularly – i.e., once a week – set that expectation upfront by letting them know what to expect. On the flip side, if a lead asks you to quit texting them, then stop immediately. You should also confirm their request promptly. If you are using a professional texting service, you should add a line at the end that says "Reply STOP to opt-out of future messages" to let your contacts know they can stop any time they wish. The Don'ts Don't use group messages: When someone gives you their mobile number, it creates a new level of responsibility. Use their number wisely to earn their trust. Including clients or prospects in a group message is rarely a good idea, as it can quickly erode the trust you are building with them. Instead, customize your text communication for each recipient. Yes, it takes extra time to create separate texts versus a group text, but it is worth it. Don't text bad news: Texting is not the best communication method if you need to share unfortunate information. Sharing bad news via text could be interpreted as cowardly or callous. If you need to be the bearer of bad news, it's better to call the client directly. That way, you can answer your customer's questions, provide additional advice, and, most importantly, read and respond to their non-verbal cues. Don't send without proofreading: Do you use the dictation feature on your phone to write texts? If you do, be extra careful, as autocorrect can wreak havoc with the English language and cause unplanned embarrassment. While some clients may be forgiving of an accidental typo or two, others will see it as a negative reflection on you. To maintain your professional image, before sending a text to a client or prospect, take a breath. Make sure you proofread and check for any errors that need to be corrected. And if you accidentally send out a text with a mistake, take ownership of it and quickly clarify what you meant to say. When texting, you can correct an error by immediately responding using an asterisk before the corrected spelling of the word (*ample – instead of apple) that appears in the text you just sent. You could also use a virtual editor to assist you with your writing. Don't send too many attachments: Sometimes, you need to send photos or short videos to a client or prospect via text. But you want to send as few as possible. Sending too many images and videos can negatively affect one's data plan or phone storage limits. Too many photos and videos also can make you appear to be pushy. If you want to send multiple images, text a link to the photos and videos on a web page or a shared online document folder (i.e., Dropbox, Google Drive, or Microsoft OneDrive). Don't text numbers on the Do Not Call Registry: Do not ever text a number on the DNC registry without permission. While doing so could potentially lead to heavy fines, more importantly, it could damage a client or prospect relationship. Remember, if you want to text a number on the Do Not Call list, you must either have a business relationship with them or get their written permission before you send them a text. The popularity of texting remains strong: 97% of American adults text weekly. Over 6 billion texts are sent daily – that is, 27 trillion texts are sent yearly. But real estate agents need to use texting wisely because they are entrusted with personal mobile phone numbers. Perhaps the best rule of thumb when deciding whether to text or not to text is if you must ask that question, don't text. If you need help with smartphone texting or other issues, remember to contact someone at Tech Helpline for assistance. To view the original article, visit the Tech Helpline blog.

5 New Habits of Highly Effective Real Estate Agents
The impact of technology and innovation on real estate is accelerating at a blazing speed. As a result, agents must continually learn, adapt, and refine their skills to remain the go-to local expert while providing the best possible service to their clients. Emerging technologies and inventive solutions for buyers and sellers are driving several new habits you should adopt to continue providing the best experience for your clients – and help create more inventory. Here are five vital new habits that can set you apart from your competition and contribute to your overall success today – and tomorrow. 1. Review the pre-sale renovation opportunity with all sellers Pre-sale renovations are one of the most effective ways to increase a property's value and appeal. As a real estate agent, you should make it a habit to discuss potential renovation opportunities with all sellers before listing their property. Pre-sale renovation may include suggesting minor updates such as painting or landscaping, or more significant improvements like kitchen or bathroom remodels. By being proactive and helping sellers understand the potential for a substantial increase in the return on investment (ROI) for these projects, you can help them create more wealth. Moreover, because homeowners won't pay a dime out of pocket when working with a reputable pre-sale renovation firm like Revive, you can unlock stuck homeowners: They want to sell, but their home needs improvements, and many don't have the cash. Letting your past clients and other homeowners in your sphere know about the no out-of-pocket costs when working with a professional pre-sale renovation firm will create more inventory while securing higher sales prices for these clients. 2. Use AI tools like ChatGPT to improve your communication skills If you love to write and excel in communication – great! Clients want their agents to be effective communicators. Research from the National Association of Realtors shows buyers and sellers value communication skills more than negotiation skills. However, many agents find writing a challenge and incredibly time-consuming. Today, artificial intelligence (AI) offers new opportunities to help you strengthen how you communicate with your clients. For example, AI tools can help you draft emails, create social media posts, and develop blog content. As a result, you can save valuable time and, more importantly, ensure consistent messaging. But remember that you are the real estate expert, not AI. AI can make mistakes – and sometimes even make up facts. So, it's crucial for you and your business reputation to make sure you edit and proof everything AI helps you write. Also, make sure the writing AI that assists you, sounds like you. You should maintain authenticity by editing everything you create to reflect your tone and voice. Incorporating AI into your daily routine may improve communication skills and enhance client engagement. However, always double-check for accuracy and ensure your content remains genuine and personable. 3. Leverage the power of professional staging for every listing While virtual staging is a hot new trend, it can't provide the in-person impact of a professionally staged home. Staging is a proven technique for enhancing a property's visual appeal and showcasing its best features. As a real estate agent, you should make it your habit to recommend professional staging for every listing. The benefits and advantages of professional staging include: Faster sales: Staged homes often sell quicker than non-staged homes. Higher sale prices: Staged homes can command higher prices, increasing sellers' ROI. Better marketing materials: Professionally staged homes provide more appealing photographs and videos for marketing purposes. Enhanced perception: Staging can help potential buyers visualize themselves living in the space, making the property more appealing. 4. Learn and share the long-term value of energy-efficient appliances and improvements Energy efficiency is important to modern homebuyers, as it reduces their environmental footprint and provides significant financial benefits. Real estate agents who prioritize understanding the intricacies of energy-efficient appliances and home improvements can provide invaluable guidance to their clients, helping them make well-informed decisions about their property investments. Energy-efficient homes contribute to a more sustainable environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the consumption of non-renewable resources. In addition, your buyers will benefit from savings on utility bills, a compelling selling point for clients who focus on long-term value. Buyers also will enjoy improved comfort and health. Energy-efficient homes often offer a more comfortable living environment with better insulation, temperature regulation, and improved air quality. Explaining these benefits can help you connect more personally with them and help them envision a higher quality of life in an energy-efficient home. Because of their reduced operating costs and the growing demand for sustainable living, efficient homes often have higher resale values. In addition, Federal, state, and local governments may offer financial incentives for homeowners to adopt energy-efficient practices, such as tax credits, rebates, or low-interest loans. When you stay updated on these programs, you can provide valuable information to clients and assist them in maximizing their benefits. Moreover, energy-efficient homes may have a competitive advantage in your market. They will appeal to eco-conscious clients. Your knowledge of this subject can differentiate you from other agents. 5. Learn and share the impact of climate risks specific to each property No matter how you feel about the topic, climate change is a growing concern for many clients and prospects. As a real estate agent and a trusted expert, you should know the climate risks specific to the properties you sell. Your clients will likely have access to this information, so you must be well informed. One thing you can do is help your clients assess their property resilience. Many factors, including building materials, elevation, and proximity to potential hazards, are essential to understanding a property's ability to withstand climate-related events. They can also help you advise clients on the necessary upgrades or recommend the discuss coverage with their insurance agent. Want to know how climate change may impact one of your listings? Then check out ClimateCheck at climatecheck.com. Just enter the address, and you'll receive, for free, a risk assessment summary. You can proactively address potential buyer concerns and provide valuable insights into the property's resilience and long-term value when you understand all the risks a client may face. This knowledge can help you build trust and demonstrate your value as a reliable source of information in the real estate industry. The bottom line These five new habits can significantly enhance your effectiveness as a real estate agent. Staying up-to-date with the latest innovations conveys that you are the local "go-to" agent for buyers and sellers, can help create more inventory, and ultimately help you achieve greater success in your competitive real estate market. Dalip Jaggi is at once an active entrepreneur, a highly skilled technologist, and a profoundly passionate business leader. Today, Dalip is co-founder of Revive Real Estate, a PropTech company with a goal to help homeowners nationwide maximize their biggest investment.

How the New FHA-Approved 40-Year Mortgage Can Save Buyers Money in the Short Term
A new type of mortgage has recently been approved by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that offers a longer repayment period of up to 40 years. In this post, we explore the benefits of the newly approved FHA 40-year mortgage, and how it can save homebuyers money in the short term. So, what exactly is the FHA 40-year mortgage? The FHA 40-year mortgage is a new type of loan that allows homebuyers to borrow money over a period of 40 years. This is longer than the typical 15- to 30-year mortgage terms. The FHA 40-year mortgage is designed to make monthly mortgage payments more manageable for homebuyers. The monthly payments are decreased by spreading out the repayment period over 40 years, which makes it simpler for those on a tight budget to afford a home. The fact that the FHA 40-year mortgage can help homebuyers save money in the short term is one of its most important advantages. As was already mentioned, the smaller monthly payments result from the longer repayment period, which makes it simpler for homebuyers to afford their mortgage payments. Homeowners that are struggling with their mortgage payments are able to do a loan modification to this new FHA 40-year mortgage. By doing so, a lower monthly payment will allow them to allocate more of their funds to other costs. According to a recent Yahoo article, Bankrate recently compared 30- and 40-year mortgages and found on a $312,000 loan at 6.85% interest, the monthly payments were $2,044 for 30 years and $1,904 for 40 years. In connection with such, below is a breakdown of the amount of potential savings you could get when comparing a 30-year mortgage at 6.85% and 5.85%. Please note that we used 5.85% to depict the amount of savings you'd basically get from a 40-year mortgage (a 40-year mortgage is the equivalent of reducing your 30-year mortgage by a 1% interest rate). The FHA 40-year mortgage can save buyers money in the short term, but it's important to remember that in the long run, buyers will pay more. So even though monthly payments may be lower, buyers will end up paying more in interest over the course of the loan. The FHA 40-year mortgage is still a great choice for homebuyers on a budget even though they will end up paying more in interest. People may find it easier to afford a home and to save money for other expenses as a result of smaller monthly payments. Additionally, homebuyers can be confident that they are receiving a competitive interest rate because the loan is backed by the FHA. In addition to such, history has shown that interest rates fluctuate. With a 40-year mortgage, as interest rates go down, buyers can potentially refinance to a shorter term mortgage to save money, making the 40-year mortgage an introductory type loan, thus further assisting first-time homebuyers. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

NAR Report Finds Decline in Commercial Property Purchases by Marijuana Industry, Increase in Leasing Activity
Realtors are seeing a decline in commercial property purchases by marijuana industry-related businesses and a corresponding increase in leasing activity, according to a new study from the National Association of Realtors®. The 2023 Marijuana and Real Estate: A Budding Issue report examines the effects of marijuana legality on various aspects of real estate. The survey, which polled NAR members, divided the responses by states that have legalized medical marijuana only and states that have legalized marijuana for medical and recreational use both before and after 2018. In states that have legalized recreational marijuana in the past five years, 18% of NAR's commercial members reported an increase in property purchasing over leasing in the past year by marijuana businesses. This figure is down from 29% in 2021. For states that legalized cannabis more than five years ago, just 14% saw an increase (20% in 2021). In states where only medical marijuana is legal, only 4% saw an increase, a significant drop from 21% in 2021. "State laws have evolved to legalize the use of prescription and recreational marijuana," said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research. "As more states adopt cannabis laws, Realtors® are at the forefront of commercial real estate activity and are working with clients to find land, warehouses and storefronts for this growing business." Commercial practitioners are also finding increased demand for warehouses, land and storefronts for marijuana businesses. In states where only prescription use is legal, 23% had seen an increased demand in storefronts, 14% in warehouses and 7% in land. In states where prescription and recreational use is legal, 25% to 29% of members had seen an increased demand in warehouses, 18% in storefronts and 13% to 15% in land. Fifteen percent of residential members in states that legalized recreational marijuana more than five years ago had sold a grow house in the past. In those same states, 45% said commercial landlords are willing to take cash for rent, up slightly from 42% in 2021. The report also found that fewer Realtors® are seeing lease addendums that restrict growing cannabis on properties. Twenty-seven percent of Realtors® in states that legalized both medical and recreational marijuana prior to 2018 have seen addendums added to leases that restrict growing on properties, down from 44% in 2021. Addendums related to smoking are on the decline in legal states. In states where recreational marijuana has been legal for more than five years, 65% of residential property managers have seen addendums added to leases restricting smoking on properties, down from 76% two years ago. For states that legalized within the past five years, 56% saw smoking addendums, down slightly from 59% in 2021. In contrast, prescription-only states saw an increase in addendums added to leases that restrict smoking on properties, jumping from 40% to 62% in the past two years. Lautz noted that as state laws continue to change, Realtors® are learning new ways to navigate the residential market. "These findings speak to our members continued efforts to stay informed about how to best advise their clients on the latest developments in the marijuana industry," Lautz added. "This includes educating clients about lease addendums related to growing and smoking on rental properties, as well as understanding the regulations in each state and unique community rules at the local level."

[Podcast] Using a CRM to Fuel Your Real Estate Business with Bryan Hill
Bryan Hill is a Founding Partner of Mint Real Estate. He's brought in several hundred million dollars in residential real estate sales and also founded the Young Professionals Network (YPN) in Newport Beach. Listen to this episode of the Real Talk, with Realtors podcast to learn how to build your real estate team, capitalize with your CRM software, create systems so you can scale, use digital marketing to bring in new leads, and be patient with your CTA. This episode covers everything from scaling your real estate business to finding the right lender. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: Why did Bryan become a broker? Does he like the interview process? What is an ISA (Inside Sales Agent)? How do you produce leads through digital marketing as a Realtor? What's a good social media paid ads budget? How much is a lead worth? What should you think about before becoming a real estate broker? Real talk...not Real talk: Lenders Connect with Bryan at MintRealEstate.com and on Instagram at @MintRealEstateInc. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

Social Media Post Ideas for Agents and Brokers
Are you ready to make a splash on social media and start landing new leads? As a real estate agent, social media can be an incredibly powerful tool for connecting with potential clients. But coming up with content ideas that will draw in your audience without being overly sales-\y isn't always easy! That's why we put together this list of ideas for post topics that can give your feeds the boost they need to stand out from the competition and engage followers – no cheesy hard sells required! Read on for our top picks. Post photos of your listings with captivating descriptions As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. And in the world of real estate, this couldn't be more true. With the influx of listings popping up left and right, it's more important than ever to make your properties stand out. One way to do this is through captivating photos and descriptions that showcase the unique features of your listings. Whether it's highlighting the stunning views or the sleek, modern design, each photo should tell a story that entices potential buyers or renters. So don't just snap a quick photo and call it a day. Take the time to carefully curate your photos and craft descriptions that truly showcase your property's best features. Share tips and advice on how to make the process of buying/selling a home easier Buying or selling a home can be one of the most stressful experiences in anyone's life. To make it less overwhelming, offer tips and advice that can make the process easier. Here are some ideas: Explain how you help guide clients through the entire process Mention how friends or family can be a good source of additional insights into the process Recommend doing research and knowing your budget before jumping into the market Emphasize the importance of patience and not rushing into any decisions Highlight local businesses and services that can help potential buyers and sellers You can help support services in the communities you serve by recommending them to buyers and sellers. There is a multitude of options available that can help make the process much smoother. From home inspectors to mortgage brokers, local professionals are equipped with the expertise and insights buyers and sellers need to make informed decisions. Additionally, using local businesses for home repairs, landscaping, and other services can be a win-win situation for both parties, ensuring that your money stays in the community and helps support local economic growth. Provide real estate market insights and news updates The real estate market is always abuzz with activities and events that shape the industry. From changes in interest rates to national housing policies, the market can be volatile and unpredictable. As such, staying informed is crucial for anyone who is looking to buy, sell or invest in properties. Emphasize that you are the right resource for all the latest insights and news updates in the real estate market. Feature homes for sale in different neighborhoods in your area Show buyers and sellers how you regularly scour the local market to find the best homes for sale in every neighborhood. Mention the listings you've singled out in your posts, get your readers excited, and link directly to the property details pages on your website. And you can encourage readers to visit your site to start searching on their own where they can become registered leads for you to start working. Interview successful clients about their experience working with you As a professional in your field, there is no greater satisfaction than hearing from your clients that they've had a positive experience working with you. Make it a point to interview your most successful clients about their journey with you. Not only does it provide valuable feedback on your strengths and opportunities for growth, but hearing their stories of achievement and progress will inspire other buyers and sellers and make them want to work with you. The trust and collaboration between you and your clients is essential to your mutual success, and these interviews only strengthen that bond. Go do it! So there you have it – some incredible ideas for social media posts that can you build an impressive following, attract new leads and stand out from the crowd. While posting photos of your listings with captivating descriptions, highlighting local businesses, and providing real estate market insights are all important steps in the process, don't forget to add some personality to your posts as well! Through storytelling, you can display the expert knowledge and personal touch that embodies your professional style – helping to solidify relationships and drive sales. To view the original article, visit the iHomeFinder blog.

Market Trends and Housing Stats Now Available in RPR Mobile
Last year, RPR (Realtors Property Resource) unveiled a fantastic resource for REALTORS®: the Market Trends charts and graphs. This collection of hyper-local housing stats is designed to help you inform your clients about local real estate market trends, info and indicators. It's also great for positioning yourself as a local market expert. (Check out these articles for details: RPR Unveils New Charts and Graphs in its Neighborhood Pages and Future Proof Your Business by Knowing Your Market and Your Numbers.) And now… (drum roll) the Market Trends charts and graphs are available on the RPR Mobile™ app! Keep clients informed with hyper-local market updates Access to Market Trends and Housing Stats through the RPR Mobile app makes it easier for REALTORS® to stay up-to-date on market trends even when they are on the go. You can quickly access Months of Inventory, List-to-Sold Price Percentage, Median Days in RPR, and Median Sold Price from your mobile device. Best of all, they're conveniently grouped by each status: New Listings, Active Listings, New Pending Listings, Pending Listings, and Sold Listings. This can help your clients make informed decisions and provide better service by being able to respond quickly to changes in the market. Use all these metrics to assess and analyze the current state of the housing market in their area. You can use this information to advise your clients on a pricing strategy, offer strategies, and market conditions. You can also use it to identify trends that may affect future buying or selling decisions. For example, if there is a low inventory of homes for sale and high demand, you may advise a seller to list their home at a higher price point knowing that there are likely to be multiple offers. Alternatively, you may advise a buyer to act quickly when a new property is listed because you know that competition will be fierce. How to find Market Trends on the RPR Mobile™ App To find the charts, open up your RPR app (after updating it, of course) and look towards the bottom of the home screen. There is now a new Market Trends icon! Click the tab to access a variety of market statistics, similar to the Market Trend tools on the RPR website. Be aware that the Market Trends will open to the geography that the user is currently in. To change it, type in a new neighborhood, ZIP or city. Pro Tip: If you're searching a neighborhood or area with little to no recent transactions, there will not be enough data for a chart to be offered. For the transaction-based charts, RPR needs at least three transactions within a calendar month. If no data appears on a chart or the "Updated" date is not what you expected, try searching within a larger area or select a different Property Type. The chart options will include: New Listings Active Listings New Pending Listings Pending Listings Sold Listings Sold Public Records Months Supply of Inventory Median Estimated Property Value You'll also be able to view a variety of metrics for all property statuses and property types. And filters allow you to break down statistics by individual property types as well. Tip: You can also "Save" markets by tapping the heart icon. RPR Market Trends and stats: up-to-date and on the go If you haven't downloaded the RPR Mobile™app, do so now! The previous link will take you to an area within our blog where you can easily get to the App store (for iPhones) or Google Play (for Android devices). Be sure to update and fire up your app or download it to your phone to get easy access to RPR's Market Trends and Housing Stats. To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

The 4 Types of People You Encounter When Cold Calling
So you're cold calling. Sure, you may have the name and address of the prospect on the other end of the line, but you don't really know who you're dealing with. Are they impatient? Chatty? Quick to hang up or easy to talk to? Understanding the personality answering your call helps you better engage with them, and is more likely to lead to a successful conversation. In the video above, Realtor Loida Velasquez breaks down the four major personality types. Watch to learn the communication styles of each, how they make decisions, how to build rapport, and more. More Insight For a deeper dive into different personality types, check out this series below: 4 Tips for Marketing to Clients by Personality: Part 1 - Bulls 4 Tips for Marketing to Clients by Personality: Part 2 - Owls 4 Tips for Marketing to Clients by Personality: Part 3 - Lambs 4 Tips for Marketing to Clients by Personality: Part 4 - Tigers

The Dos and Don'ts of Presale Home Renovation
Selling a home can be a stressful and time-consuming process for homeowners, especially when their home needs a little love before listing. But as a real estate agent, you know that presale home renovations can make a significant difference in the value of a property and the speed of its sale. However, if not done right a presale renovation can be littered with pitfalls. Here are some do's and don'ts of presale home renovations that real estate agents should keep in mind when advising their sellers: Do's of Presale Home Renovations Focus on first impressions: Spending time and money improving the home's exterior and entryway is critical to making a great first impression on potential buyers. The property's exterior is the first thing potential buyers will see, so focusing on curb appeal is vital. This can include landscaping, painting the front door, adding outdoor lighting, and more. Keep it simple, clean and neutral: Stick to neutral colors and designs that appeal to a wide range of buyers. Improve high-traffic areas: Concentrate on the most frequently used areas of the home, such as the kitchen, bathrooms, and living spaces. Work within your budget: Establish a budget with a built-in cushion for the renovation, but stick to it to avoid overspending. Set a realistic timeline: Homeowners should plan the renovation with a realistic timeline that accounts for unexpected delays. This will help avoid rushing the renovation and ensure that the end result is high-quality. Hire a professional presale renovation firm: A professional presale renovation firm, like Revive, has the proven systems, knowledge, skills, contractor network, project management resources, design experience, and an insider view of home feature trends to make the right improvements to enhance the value of a home. Don'ts of Presale Home Renovations Over-renovate: While some renovations are necessary to make the property more appealing to potential buyers, it's crucial to avoid over-renovating. Avoid remodeling the home beyond what the market demands, as it can be difficult to recoup the cost of major renovations when selling.Keep the neighborhood and the surrounding area in mind when planning renovations, as over-improving the home can make it stand out negatively. Being too hip: Avoid overly trendy designs and finishes that may not appeal to a wide range of buyers. Skimping on quality: Avoid cutting corners or using subpar materials to save money, as it can turn buyers off and decrease the home's value. Ignoring minor repairs: Don't overlook small repairs or maintenance issues; they can add up and convey a negative impression to potential buyers. Choosing the wrong contractor: Selecting the wrong contractor can be disastrous for a presale renovation. Homeowners should research potential contractors, check references, and request proof of insurance and proper licensing. This can be a highly time-consuming process, but it is necessary to be successful. A professional presale renovation firm, like Revive, has the necessary know-how to save your client the hassle, liability, and time. A company like Revive has proven systems, knowledge, skills, contractor network, project management resources, design experience, and an insider view of home feature trends to make the right improvements that will help your client enhance the value of their home. As an agent, it's your job to help your clients make informed decisions about the renovation process before listing a property, as your advice can help maximize the value of their property. Michael Alladawi, CEO and Founder of Revive, is a Southern California real estate veteran with a proven track record as a builder, investor, and respected home flipper. Michael created Revive to share his spectrum of knowledge and help homeowners maximize their profits when selling their homes. Learn more about Michael and Revive at www.revive.realestate.

Is it Time to Hire a Real Estate Coach?
Real estate professionals all started somewhere. While many industry pros aren't shocked at new agents struggling to get their footing, it's not just the newbies who may need business help. Even established agents need a refresher — or even remotivation — occasionally. Or, a real estate pro boomerangs back into the industry. All of these possibilities are worthy of considering hiring a real estate coach. You may be wondering, I'm already part of a brokerage, why do I need any more coaching? A real estate coach is unique in their specific focus on the fine details of not only the industry, but also how to best perform and succeed in real estate. Real estate coaches can size up your strengths and weaknesses and work with you to build actionable business or improvement plans. They can also provide marketing tips, advice for handling clients, help with lead generation tactics, and much more. Why Work with a Real Estate Coach? Some more key reasons you may consider hiring a real estate coach include: Your local market is heating up: If market activity is on the rise and you find yourself struggling to make the most of it for your business, a real estate coach can help you muscle through the details and create systems and processes to maximize your time investment. Time is money: Time management and knowing where to prioritize is crucial to a successful real estate business. A coach can help you decipher key areas of focus and give plenty of real-life tips around scheduling and time management to help you unlock greater work-life balance. Getting a plan in place: From marketing expertise to crafting a long-term business plan, a real estate coach's experience can line up with your weaknesses to turn them into strengths. By partnering with a coach, your real estate business can get on a solid foundation and a steady track with careful, knowledge-backed planning. You're ready to grow: Maybe it's time for you to switch brokerages. Perhaps you're ready to start your own team. Or expanding and excelling as an agent is a goal you're now chasing. For all of these scenarios (and then some), a real estate coach can help you create an actionable plan to reach these goals. Pro Tip: Still not sure why you may want to work with a real estate coach? Try this: ask yourself where your greatest areas of opportunity are, and where your prominent strengths lie. Write these down on a piece of paper. Then, highlight how each of your strengths currently help your business, and how improving your weak spots could help your business. For example, if you're strong at networking, this helps your business by expanding your sphere of clients. If you're weaker at online marketing, you could improve lead generation if your marketing skills were stronger. Doing this exercise will help you start to understand where a real estate coach can support you to fill in the gaps and help you grow, and where they can also nurture and strengthen the aptitude you already bring to the table. A Quick Cost Analysis When considering hiring a real estate coach, there are a host of factors to consider. Generally, the bigger the name, the larger the price. Typically, a real estate coach can cost anywhere from $300 to $1,500 with price dictated by tenure, level of support that they offer, training materials, and private, hands-on training sessions. More Affordable Stepping Stones If this range isn't within your budget, there's no need to worry. Other options that offer real estate coaching include: Group coaching: Real estate coaches usually charge a lower monthly fee for access to group coaching. Group coaching typically consists of a regularly-scheduled coaching session with predetermined materials by the real estate coach, and the opportunity to hear from other agents in the group as they share their challenges and wins. In addition to receiving coaching at a lower cost, you also get the benefit of networking opportunities. Connecting via social media: Countless real estate pros leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to share their top tips for business success. These tips can come in the form of blog posts or videos, allowing you to also familiarize yourself with the style of the real estate coach and assess if their approach is what you want to emulate for your business. These real estate coaches may also advertise free workshops or networking events via their social media platforms. Virtual coursework: Another option is online coursework crafted specifically by a real estate coach. They may offer reports, case studies, pre-recorded videos, or scheduled live virtual discussions for a set, package price. This will allow you to work at your own pace, offer you access to their expertise, and sometimes even a network of agents also taking the course. How to Find the Right Real Estate Coach for You When investing in a real estate coach, you'll want to conduct your own cost analysis through accessibility and the degree of your needs. The timing of real estate opportunities is often unpredictable; you'll want to have quick, easy access to your coach to help you navigate smoothly through whatever is thrown your way. A key trait of a quality real estate coach starts with their tenure. The longer an agent has been in business, the more you can trust they've earned their wisdom. Their success rate is equally important: what is their reputation for results? Zeroing in on their success milestones like other agents they've helped grow, their own deals closed, and their marketing tactics, you can assess if this is a real estate coach you'd want to partner with for your business. Finally, interviewing is key. While a good real estate coach brings a wealth of knowledge and deep expertise, a great real estate coach meshes well with your personality and business mindset. Making sure you connect is key to maximizing your partnership and growing your business. To view the original article, visit the BoomTown blog.

April Is Fair Housing Month: 4 Easy Ways to Get Involved
April 11 marks the 55th anniversary of the enactment of the Fair Housing Act, and April itself is designated as Fair Housing month in commemoration. Real estate agents can celebrate Fair Housing Month by taking proactive steps to promote and uphold fair housing principles. Here are some ways that agents can do just that this month—and throughout the year: Review Fair Housing laws and regulations Take time to review Fair Housing laws and regulations to ensure you are up to date on any changes or updates. Fortunately, NAR has an entire resource section dedicated to Fair Housing, as well as a resource page for Fair Housing month, which includes links to training, posters, social media graphics, videos, book recommendations and more. Freddie Mac last week released a progress report on its three-year plan to promote access to equitable and sustainable housing. See that here: Freddie Mac Equitable Housing Finance Plan 2022 Performance Report. Technology, including online ads, can run afoul of Fair Housing laws. Don't let this happen to you! See this article to ensure your online marketing stays fair: One Simple Rule to Ensure Your Ads Don't Violate Fair Housing Laws. Attend training sessions Speaking of training, NAR is offering two live, online events this month on Fair Housing. You can check those out here. If those don't quite fit into your schedule, this recorded workshop on implicit bias may be more your speed. Prefer books, articles, or podcasts for learning? Check out these two articles we published during Black History Month for a wealth of helpful, relevant information: Black History Month: Resources and Trainings Black History Month: Books to Learn About Racial Disparities in Real Estate Display Fair Housing posters You can display Fair Housing posters in your offices or on your website to demonstrate your commitment to fair housing principles. HUD and NAR both offer versions you can download and print, and you can also check with your local associations or state agencies for similar resources. Educate clients You likely underwent training on Fair Housing in order to get your real estate license. So while you may be familiar with the laws, your clients may not be. Be prepared to educate them on Fair Housing laws and regulations during their home buying or selling journey. Do they know, for instance, that writing "buyer love letters" could violate Fair Housing regulations? Or perhaps members of your community are simply unaware of the housing opportunities available to them. In that case, you can take inspiration from Sabrina Brown, a winner of last year's Fair Housing Champion Awards. Brown hosts workshops to help first-time buyers, especially those of color, connect with programs to help them achieve the dream of homeownership. Speaking of homeownership opportunities, many would-be buyers view the down payment as a barrier to buying a home. It doesn't have to be, though! Many down payment assistance programs exist, including those for people of color and the LGBTQ community. Many MLSs display down payment assistance eligibility information on their listings. Realtor.com and Zillow do, as well, so this information is out there for both real estate pros and consumers alike! You may only have to point this data out to leads and clients to get them started down the path to homeownership.

[Podcast] Finding the Right Brokerage for You, with Brittany Walter
Brittany Walter has been a real estate agent for the past 10 years at the esteemed Keller Williams Los Feliz. She won the 2020 Diamond Award for her accomplishments and has served on the Agent Leadership Council. In this episode of "Real Talk, with Realtors," hear how to find the right brokerage for you and your career, educate and train your team, give back to good causes, go the extra mile for sellers and buyers, and the epiphany that got Brittany into real estate. This episode covers everything from company culture to incentives for buying. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: Where did Brittany's epiphany come from? How did Brittany decide to work at Keller Williams Los Feliz? What should you think and ask about when considering brokerages? Any plans for her own broker license? How important is it to be involved in the office? How achievable is the top 20% for someone in their first year? How did Brittany start partnering with Revive? Real talk...not Real talk: Trying to buy a home today Connect with Brittany on social media at @BrittanySellsLA. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

8 Real Estate Marketing Ideas for April
In March, we started a monthly series that shared marketing ideas specific to each month. Now, we're back with more ideas you can use to kickstart your real estate marketing efforts. Read on for eight marketing ideas for April: 1. Easter, Easter, Easter Easter is the most prominent holiday of April—but it's coming up fast! While there's not much time to do something more involved, like hosting an Easter egg hunt, you can still send Easter greetings to your database, or create Easter-themed posts on social media. Highlight Easter events in your community or local retail sales (e.g., where can you find the best Easter candy?). An online tool like Canva can help you create attractive graphics in a snap. And while there might not be time to host an event of your own, if your association, brokerage, church, or other local organization is hosting an event, you can show your face there. 2. Host a virtual workshop on home renovations that bring in $$$ Partner with local experts to provide valuable tips and advice for homeowners via Zoom or another live streaming platform. But don't make it any old seminar—appeal directly to homeowners' bottom line by highlighting the renovations that increase property values, like: Remodeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features She Sheds, Steam Ovens Can Help Sell Homes for Up to $17,400 More 3. Create a local events calendar Spring is here, and the school year will be over in just a couple of months. What does that mean? Summer events galore! Help your contacts gain awareness of the events in your community by creating a local events calendar. Include events like farmer's markets, outdoor concerts, and more. You can print and mail copies out, email it to your database, or post it on your website and social media. Your calendar can contain events for the entire season, or you can break it up and share it monthly for more frequent touchpoints with your database. 4. Highlight Earth Day Energy efficiency is top of mind for many consumers these days, especially because of the outrageous increase in natural gas prices this past winter. Highlight energy-efficient home features that can help reduce heating and cooling costs, or share tips on reducing energy expenditure. Check out these articles for ideas: Top 8 Eco-Friendly Home Features in Demand 6 Things Every Agent Needs to Know About Solar Energy for Homes 4 Ways to Market Eco-homes to Buyers 5. Launch a social media contest or giveaway Host an Instagram giveaway that requires people to follow your account and tag a friend in the comments for a chance to win a gift card to a local restaurant or home improvement store. You can file this idea under Things that are mutually beneficial to both you and your followers—you build your following and your followers get something for free. See Hold the Ultimate Social Media Contest with This Helpful Timeline for more information. 6. Partner with a local food truck for your open houses It's no secret that real estate buyers are more hesitant to jump into the market these days, thanks to mortgage rates and high home prices. Drum up interest by making your open houses stand out by inviting a local food truck to your event. This can help create a fun and memorable experience for potential buyers—and helps you build your database. 7. Create a series of informative videos on home buying or selling tips Consumers are insatiable when it comes to videos. Go where your leads are and start creating real estate videos for your platform(s) of choice, whether that's YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, or beyond. It doesn't have to be an intensive process, either: just turn on your phone's camera and start sharing your knowledge (don't, as they say, let perfect be the enemy of good). Here are some posts that can help: Shifting Real Estate Market: How to Create a Video That Clears up Confusion How to Optimize Your Real Estate Video Marketing 8. Host a virtual book club for real estate enthusiasts The best marketing strategies are ones that you're enthusiastic about. If you're a big reader, consider hosting a virtual book club for like-minded individuals. There are tons of books out there about real estate investing, real estate basics, mindset and motivation, business, and more. Choose a book and invite clients, colleagues, and friends to participate in discussions. Here are a few book ideas to get you started: 10 Books that Can Help Your Real Estate Business 10 Must-Read Books All Agents Need to Study 8 Books That Every Real Estate Pro Should Read

How to Handle These 4 Tough Conversations with Clients
As you help home buyers navigate the most significant investment of their lifetimes or help homeowners sell their most significant asset, you're not just dealing with the intricacies of transacting the property — you're also dealing with the complexities of people. And it's no surprise that tough conversations coming up can be inevitable. In addition to being a master at lead generation, marketing your brand, and knowing the buying and selling process like the back of your hand, you may also have to navigate tricky territories. But sticky situations are no match for you as a real estate expert, and we're here to highlight four tough scenarios that may arise — and how you can handle each one. Before we get started, we recommend your approach for any tough conversation is to make sure you listen, empathize, educate, and remind and reassure them that you're on their team and have their best interest at the forefront. Here are some uncomfortable scenarios you may face and strategies to help you overcome these challenges and easily navigate those tough conversations. Scenario #1: Your Buyer's Offer Got Denied… and They Blame You Arguably the most common tough conversation to have with a client, and one that never seems to get any easier. The best approach here is to let your buyer vent and listen actively. Empathy is everything: they're disappointed in losing out on their dream home. But little do they know you can help them find their next perfect property. Once they've gotten everything off their chest, reassure them that you're committed to their best interest and put your game face on. Remind the buyer that you're on their team and that you're relentless in the pursuit of their home-buying journey. Scenario #2: The Transaction Is Happening Due to an Unfortunate Event Sometimes buying or selling a home isn't taking place as a result of the happiest circumstances. Whether it's a death in the family, a divorce or a separation, or an unexpected change in their job, there can be painful reasons to change housing. This is where active listening and deep empathy towards your client's specific situation is key. Start with offering condolences or sympathy, and then reassure them that you have the tough stuff handled. Clients in these scenarios are very likely dealing with a lot at once, so knowing that they can trust you to handle the big picture — and finer details — of the home buying or selling process is crucial. Taking this weight off their shoulders can help establish trust, and make the process easier for everyone involved. Pro Tip: In particularly harrowing circumstances, consider a small gift. Not only is it a classy touch, it connects you to the buyer or seller on a deeper level by offering them comfort in their time of need and change. Scenario #3: Expectations Aren't Matching Up with Reality Ah, the starry-eyed, pie-in-the-sky buyer (or seller, but more on that in Scenario #4). They want it all, and they want it now, and with an unrealistic budget, of course. Perhaps online calculators have warped their expectations, or maybe they've got a surprise in the form of their mortgage pre-approval. Whatever the case may be, bringing these clients back down to reality requires you to ensure they have a gentle landing. Work with their budget and come to the discussion table armed with data highlighting the state of the market. Gather a list of their non-negotiables, and be patient in explaining the home buying process — and all of its intricacies — to them. By educating these buyers, and demonstrating your expertise and commitment to helping them find their home, you can gently guide them to the light – or rather, to a realistic home purchase. Scenario #4: Sellers Want to List Their Home for Way Too Much Data is everything in this scenario. Similar to our dreamy buyers in Scenario #3, these sellers love their homes and view them as being worth a top-dollar premium. Again, expectations are surpassing reality here, but armed with the right volume of market data, you can tackle this tough conversation with ease. Conduct an analysis of home values in their neighborhood, including recent sales. In combination with other macroeconomic factors like interest rates, and the volume of demand in their area, you can give these sellers a clear-cut view of what they can expect to sell their home for in its current state. To view the original article, visit the BoomTown blog.

Is Your Computer Protected from All the Newest Cyber Threats? A Quick Checklist
As a real estate agent, your computer is core to your business ecosystem, allowing you to communicate with clients, store and quickly access important documents, complete and process forms, and manage your schedule. However, with the rise of cyber threats, protecting your computer is more important than ever. Here is a checklist with ways to protect your computer from the latest threats: 1. Install protective software Installing antivirus and anti-malware software is one of the most basic ways to protect your computer from the latest threats. These programs work by detecting and removing harmful software that could compromise your computer's security. While many operating systems come with built-in protection, it's essential to invest in reputable antivirus software and keep it up to date. 2. Set up a firewall A firewall is a program or device that creates a barrier between your computer and the internet. It can prevent unauthorized access to your computer and help prevent malicious software from attacking via the internet. Most operating systems come with a built-in firewall, as do many new routers, but you can also purchase a more advanced firewall if you want extra protection. If you are not sure what you need and have access to free support from Tech Helpline, reach out for guidance. 3. Keep your systems and software updated Another essential step in protecting your computer is to keep your operating system and software current. Updates often include security patches that address known vulnerabilities, so it's crucial to download and install them as soon as they become available. Regular updates also ensure that your computer is running at its best. 4. Use strong passwords Passwords are one of the most basic ways to protect your computer and online accounts. Use a strong password that combines uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easy-to-guess passwords like "password," "admin," or "123456," or a variation of a family name with numbers, as these can be too easy to guess. And never use the same password for multiple accounts because if someone hacks your password for one account, they can access all of your accounts. Instead, consider using a password manager to generate and store unique passwords for all your accounts. 5. Be careful when opening email attachments or clicking on links Phishing scams are a common way cybercriminals try to access sensitive information. Be cautious when opening emails from unknown senders or clicking on links in emails, especially if they look suspicious. If you're unsure about an email's legitimacy, contact the sender directly to verify the message's contents. 6. Use two-factor authentication Two-factor authentication is becoming more common than ever. When given the option – use it. It provides an extra layer of security that requires you to enter a code or use a biometric scan in addition to your password. Many online services, including email providers and social media platforms, offer two-factor authentication as an option. Enabling two-factor authentication can make it much harder for cybercriminals to gain access to your accounts. 7. Remember to back up your data Even with all the best protection in place, there's always a risk that a new threat could compromise your computer. That's why it's important to regularly back up your data to an external hard drive or cloud-based service. Then, if your computer is ever lost, stolen, or held hostage, you won't lose all your important files and documents. Here are a few reasons why for real estate agents, in particular, protecting your computer is so important: 1. It protects your clients' information As a real estate agent, you're responsible for protecting your client's personal and financial information. Cybercriminals can use this information to commit identity theft or financial fraud. Safeguarding your computer can reduce the risk of data breaches and protect your clients' information. 2. It prevents or reduces downtime If your computer is infected with malware, it can slow down or crash, leading to costly downtime. By protecting your computer from the latest threats, you can minimize the risk of downtime and keep your business running smoothly. 3. It's good for your reputation Your clients expect you to be professional and trustworthy. Maintaining your computer's security also keeps your reputation as a professional real estate agent. If your computer is compromised and sensitive information is leaked or stolen, it can damage your image and make it harder to win new clients. 4. Avoid legal issues Because you also have a legal responsibility to protect your clients' information and maintain the confidentiality of their transactions, you must take measures to protect them. If your computer is hacked and client information is compromised, there is a risk of legal liability. You can minimize legal risks and protect your client's interests by taking proactive steps to protect your computer. 5. Help keeps your business competitive and clients happy In today's digital age, most real estate transactions involve online communication, documentation, and digital signatures, like Form Simplicity from Florida Realtors. Suppose your computer is compromised, and you can't communicate with clients or access important documents. In that case, it can put you at a disadvantage compared to other agents who have invested the time and resources to protect their computers. You can keep your business competitive and clients happy by staying ahead of the latest threats and safeguarding your computer. Finally, if you have access to Tech Helpline, like 750,000 other Realtors in the US and Canada do, you have easy access to tech analysts who can assist you with any computer-related issues or concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out and take advantage of Tech Helpline to ensure you protect your computer from the newest threats. Whether you need help with antivirus software, firewalls, or two-factor authentication, Tech Helpline is available to provide the support and guidance you need to keep your computer secure. Remember, by investing in your computer's security, you're investing in the future of your business. Other related articles: Don't fall for it: 4 new online + offline scams and how to protect yourself 3 ways to protect your tech from natural disasters Realtor safety apps to protect you and your clients 5 ways you can spring clean your tech Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns and operates Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.

Build an Opt-in Email List: 8 Proven Tactics to Try Now
Are you looking to increase the reach of your real estate business? Email marketing is a proven and powerful way of driving real estate leads — but how do you get started? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we dive deep into the world of email marketing and look at how you can build a list of eager leads that can't wait to hear from you. Read on to learn how you can take your real estate email marketing strategy to the next level! Opt-in Email Strategies for REALTORS® Identify Your Target Audience: The first step to creating an effective opt-in list is to identify your target audience. Think about who you are trying to reach and focus on creating content tailored to their needs. Offer a Valuable Resource: A lead magnet is an incentive that entices people to give you their contact information in exchange for something of value. This can be anything from a free digital resource you create such as an ebook or buyer/seller guide, or a webinar. You can even turn to RPR for reports such as the Market Activity report, Market Trends and Housing Stats, or a Neighborhood Report. It should be something that your target audience finds valuable enough to offer up in exchange for their contact information. Create a Lead Capture Page: Now that you've identified your target audience and developed a lead magnet, it's time to create a lead capture page where people can sign up to receive your lead magnet. Make sure it's visually appealing and easy to use so people don't have any trouble signing up. Promote Your Lead Magnet: Once you have identified your lead magnet, you need to promote it so people know it's available. Make sure you are targeting the right people with your message and keep it consistent across channels. Here are eight tactics to help get the word out: Add a Newsletter Sign-up to Your Website: As a REALTOR®, your website is the hub of your online presence. By including a newsletter sign-up form, you can capture the email addresses of potential clients and stay in touch with them with valuable, informative content. Gather Contacts from Open Houses: These potential clients have already expressed interest in real estate and may be in the market for a new home. Bring an opt-in sign-up sheet to your next open house or set up an online registration form to collect email addresses. Consider Paid Advertising: By investing in targeted ads, you can reach a wider audience and entice them with valuable content and promotions. Consider using Google Ads or other digital ad platforms to target local buyers. Team Up with Influencers: By partnering with popular social media personalities and influencers, you'll tap into their engaged audience and gain exposure to a wider pool of potential clients. This collaboration can help to establish trust, boost credibility, and ultimately drive more opt-ins to your list. Tap into Local Networking Events: Don't overlook the value of attending local events, such as local networking mixers, farmer's markets and more. This provides a perfect opportunity to collect email addresses and engage with potential customers. Grow Your List with Client Referrals: Word of mouth is everything in the real estate industry. That's why client referrals are such a powerful tool to grow your opt-in email list. Develop a referral program where clients can refer their friends and family to join your list. Incorporate QR Codes in Print Marketing: QR codes have had a resurgence, and when it comes to print marketing, they can be a good way to grow opt-in email lists. QR codes allow consumers to easily scan a print marketing piece and access digital content, such as an opt-in form to join a mailing list or offer. Make the Most of Social Media: Use Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok and other channels to promote your opt-in email list. Offer a lead magnet as an incentive to sign up. Capture and Nurture Your Leads: As consumers download your lead magnet, and opt-in to your list, ensure that they receive personalized and timely follow-ups. This keeps people engaged in their journey with you as their trusted advisor. Construct your list and connect with your contacts Don't let building your real estate email list overwhelm you. By leveraging these strategies, you can connect with a larger pool of potential buyers and sellers, and create a powerful email marketing strategy. To view the original article, visit the RPR blog.

Our Top 10 Most-Read Articles of March
Spring has sprung, and it's safe to say that the busy season is officially underway. To that end, we published a host of articles to help you get a leg up on your competition. This includes a pair of articles on how to attract home buyers and home sellers by targeting their most frequently googled questions with ads. Those articles are #1 and #3, respectively, on our list below of last month's most read articles. We also offered March-specific marketing ideas (article #6) — and in a few days, we'll debut a bunch of ideas just for April, so stay tuned! In the meantime, check out articles about nifty things you can do with a new iPhone (#2) and recommended desktop apps (#10). Discover what else agents and brokers were reading in March on the full list below: 1. 10 Common Questions Home Buyers Ask Google (and 30 Key Phrases to Target with Google Ads)Real estate agents looking to drive querying buyers to their own website can target buyers' most asked questions with Google Ads. To help you get started, we've compiled a list of 10 common questions that home buyers ask. Each question is paired with three related key phrases you can use to target askers of that query with an advertising campaign. 2. 3 Magical Things You Can Do with Newer iPhonesApple's latest software update (iOS 16) introduces features that leverage AI and new built-in tech, putting a little magic in your pocket. Apple bills the new enhancements to the iPhone as "all-new personalization features, deeper intelligence, and more seamless ways to communicate and share." Here are three new features that are wowing folks and should benefit agents on the go. 3. 10 Questions Home Sellers Ask Google (and 40 Key Phrases to Target Them)We recently published a list of common homebuyer questions and keywords for targeting buyers with Google Ads. But what about sellers? Never fear—we wouldn't dare overlook this valuable demographic. That's why we're providing this list of common questions homeowners ask when considering selling their home, and corresponding key phrases for each. 4. 3 Vertical Video Ideas for Real Estate MarketingGone are the days when the traditional horizontal video was king. Thanks to social media and the widespread consumption of content on smartphones, vertical now rules the roost. But don't let the format change intimidate you—let it save you time instead! There's no need to use fancy equipment, set up shots, or spend much time in post-production—your smartphone is all the tool you'll need! Learn how to get started ASAP. 5. What Are You Getting Paid for? Explaining Your Real Estate Agent RemunerationLet's talk about money. Big commissions are why you got into real estate, but how do you justify the amount you charge for your services? "Why do I need a real estate agent?" is often the first question sellers ask themselves when thinking about selling their house. Highlight your value to give the consumer a better understanding of why it is important to use a professional real estate agent and forgo the FSBO route. 6. 9 Real Estate Marketing Ideas for MarchSpring selling season is nearly upon us, and if you haven't already revved up your marketing engine, March is a great time to start. We want to help you get off the starting line, so here are nine ideas you can use for all your real estate marketing needs. 7. How to Sync Your Google and Apple CalendarsAre you an iPhone owner who uses Gmail? Or a MacBook owner with an Android? If you're any kind of technology cross-pollinator, chances are good that you've had some issues synching things, like your calendar. Syncing your Apple and Google calendars is a great way to make sure no important dates slip through the cracks. Here's how. 8. How to Close 1 Home and Get 3 More ClientsSuccess begets success, as the saying goes. And the successful sale of a home is an opportunity to gain more business. How? Realtor Jaime Resendiz has a system for gaining new clients when a transaction closes, and he shares his method in this video. 9. The Hidden Costs of DIY Presale Renovations: A Guide for Real Estate AgentsAs a real estate agent representing sellers today, you may find homeowners are eager to maximize their return on investments and be tempted to take on DIY improvement projects. To help your sellers make the right choice, it is crucial to understand the risks and potential pitfalls of pre-sale renovations. 10. Software and Desktop Apps Every Real Estate Agent NeedsThere's quite a few software and desktop apps you might not be aware of that can help you and your real estate business. Get help with accounting, graphic design and layout, project management, CRMs, social media scheduling and more. Here's RPR's list of desktop apps that real estate agents need to take for a spin.

Gen Z Homebuyers Consider Smart Features, New Builds and Prioritize Sustainable Materials, New Survey Shows
With 2022 having seen a notable increase in mortgage rates compared to historical lows in 2020-21, and with many economic factors to watch based on the first quarter of 2023, many U.S. homebuyers and sellers are rethinking their approach to achieving their real estate goals, according to a study commissioned by RE/MAX. The global real estate franchisor released a comprehensive, current analysis of consumer tendencies and professional strategies around buying, selling, or owning a home. The U.S. Future of Real Estate 2023 Report was developed in partnership with the advertising agency Camp + King and conducted by leading consumer insights agency Canvas8. The research, which included a survey of more than 2,900 American homebuyers or sellers, along with expert interviews with real estate researchers and economists, identified six key themes exploring how people's attitudes and values toward buying, owning, and selling homes are shifting. As a real estate franchisor dedicated to helping real estate professionals deliver a better customer experience, RE/MAX commissioned the report to uncover valuable insights for agents. The six key themes identified in the report as main trends and mindsets impacting homebuying and selling in 2023 are: Information Overload – People want help making better sense of the homebuying and selling process. Real Talk – People want real estate agents to offer more human-centered support. Modern Adaptability – People are making compromises in search of stability. Future-Proofed Properties – People are looking for self-sustaining, resilient homes. New Hubs – People are looking for areas that offer them the opportunity to connect with a community. Curated Control – People want spaces they can optimize for work and play. "The events of the past few years have made homebuyers more deliberate about what a home should offer them," said Nick Bailey, RE/MAX President and CEO. "A home purchase is one of the largest transactions a person will make in their lifetime, so it's important for them to have a clear understanding about what they're seeking in a home. Research like this can help a real estate professional guide them in their search." Highlights from each of the six themes identified in the report include the following: 46% of sellers cite more support in understanding the process as one of the two most important areas of need, compared to just 27% of buyers. 40% of Americans say that terminology/language is a key barrier to homeownership – that's up from 17% in 2020. 54% of Americans think trust and familiarity have become more important factors when choosing a real estate agent in the past 12 months. Just 25% of first-time buyers reported satisfaction with their recent experience, compared to 74% of experienced buyers. Economic concerns prompted 56% of Americans to buy sooner than they expected – in 2020, 29% of Americans said they bought sooner than expected, citing reasons related to the pandemic. 52% of Americans say real estate agents' "years of experience" have become more important in the past 12 months. More than two-thirds of U.S. homeowners (65%) who experienced a problem with their property in 2022 recognize that it could have been prevented with routine maintenance and/or inspections. Gen Z buyers are more interested in smart features (78%), new builds (77%), and sustainable materials (81%) than older cohorts. Vibrant local communities are an important factor for younger generations, with 77% of Gen Z saying they consider this when looking to purchase a home. 64% of U.S. buyers say renovation potential is an important factor when looking for a home to buy, compared to 45% in 2020. Download the full report with detailed stats in each of the six themes HERE. "Times change, and in a fast-paced industry like this one, it's important to stay a step ahead. The research shows consumers are increasingly turning to experienced, full-time professionals – and those are the type of agents who make up the RE/MAX network," added Bailey. The U.S. Future of Real Estate 2023 Report is one of two market reports exploring the future of real estate across North America. The Canada Future of Real Estate 2023 Report can be found HERE. RE/MAX and its agency partners examined the homeownership landscape across the United States and Canada to unpack and explore the trends shaping the future of real estate in these two separate markets as a way to see what's really going on in the business right now – and to build a clearer, more informed sense of what's ahead.

The Psychology of Homebuying: Understanding the Emotions that Drive Real Estate Decisions
Buying a home is often considered one of the most significant purchases a person will make in their lifetime. Not only is it a financial investment, but it also holds emotional value. For many, the process of purchasing a home can be overwhelming, stressful, and emotional. This is because the psychology of homebuying is complex and often driven by a range of emotions. In this post, we will explore the psychology of homebuying and how emotions influence real estate decisions. Major life decision First and foremost, homebuying is a major life decision. It is not only an investment in real estate, but it also involves a significant amount of money, time, and effort. As a result, a variety of emotions, including excitement, anxiety, fear and uncertainty frequently influence this decision. These emotions can often cloud the judgment of homebuyers and lead to irrational decision making. Feeling of security One of the most significant emotional drivers in homebuying is the feeling of security. People often associate owning a home with stability and security. This is because owning a home provides a sense of permanence and stability that renting does not. As a result, homebuyers often prioritize safety and security when looking for a new home. This is demonstrated by the desire for communities with low crime rates, top-notch schools, and convenient access to services like hospitals and supermarkets. Feeling of belonging Another emotion that drives homebuying is the feeling of belonging. A sense of neighborhood and community belonging is a benefit of homeownership. This is because homeowners often become invested in their community and take pride in their home and neighborhood. As a result, homebuyers often prioritize finding a home that is in a neighborhood that aligns with their values and beliefs. This can be seen in the desire for neighborhoods that are diverse, vibrant, and welcoming. Fear of missing out (FOMO) On the other hand, fear is another feeling that can influence a person's decision to buy a house. Fear of missing out (FOMO) is a common emotion that drives people to make hasty decisions. In homebuying, FOMO can manifest in the fear of losing out on a desirable property or neighborhood. This fear can lead homebuyers to make rash decisions, like putting in an offer without conducting proper research or inspections. Additionally, fear can also manifest in the fear of making a mistake. This fear can lead homebuyers to delay making a decision or to second-guess their choices. Anxiety Anxiety is another emotion that can play a significant role in homebuying. Buying a home is a major financial decision, and the fear of making a bad investment can lead to anxiety. Additionally, the process of homebuying can be stressful and overwhelming. This stress can lead to anxiety and impact decision making. Ultimately, homebuying is a complex process that involves a range of emotions. Understanding the psychology of homebuying can help homebuyers make more informed decisions. By acknowledging the emotions that drive real estate decisions, homebuyers can take steps to ensure that their decisions are rational and based on sound judgment. Here are some tips for managing emotions during the homebuying process: Set clear priorities: Before beginning the homebuying process, it is important to set clear priorities. This will help homebuyers stay focused on what is important to them and avoid making decisions based on emotion. Conduct proper research: It is important to conduct proper research when looking for a home. This will help homebuyers make informed decisions based on facts rather than emotions. Stay organized: Homebuying can be overwhelming, and staying organized can help manage stress and anxiety. Keeping track of important documents, deadlines, and appointments can help reduce stress and make the process more manageable. Seek support: Homebuying can be a stressful and emotional process. It is important that buyers seek support from friends, family or you, their real estate agent. Having someone to talk to can help manage emotions and provide a fresh perspective on the situation. Take breaks: It is important that buyers take breaks and step away from the homebuying process when feeling overwhelmed or stressed. This can help clear the mind and allow for more rational decision making. In conclusion, the psychology of homebuying is complex and driven by a range of emotions. Understanding the emotions that drive real estate decisions can help homebuyers make more informed and rational decisions. By setting clear priorities, conducting proper research, staying organized, seeking support, and taking breaks, homebuyers can manage their emotions and make the best decision for their needs and preferences. To view the original article, visit the Transactly blog.

5 Facebook Hacks to Help You Grow Your Business
Social media has revolutionized how real estate agents can engage with their sphere. Among all social media channels available to real estate agents, Facebook remains the single most important one. Why? Because nearly all your customers are on Facebook. Three out of four Americans – that's 240 million people – are Facebook users. Let's explore five Facebook hacks that can help you grow your real estate business and reach more clients, and potential clients, than ever before. Hack 1: The Power of Cute The old marketing adage "puppies, kittens, and babies sell" still rings true today, as cute imagery can evoke strong emotions and create a connection with your audience. When used appropriately, cute images can be a powerful marketing tool. Share images of your or your client's pets, or if you are comfortable doing so, post a cute picture of your child and relate it to your work that day. When you have a listing with features most people consider cute, highlight those. How can cute help you sell real estate? Researchers have found that people show a higher level of concentration after viewing photos of puppies and kittens. In other words, it's a great way to engage your sphere on Facebook and get their attention. However, it's essential to keep authenticity in mind – don't just use cute images to be cute, as it may come across as insincere and backfire. Hack 2: Utilize Facebook Messenger Facebook Messenger offers a unique opportunity for immediate engagement with potential clients. Tie it to your Facebook-boosted posts by inviting users to send you a message for more information. Facebook research shows this is a great way to increase engagement, leads, and sales. Be prepared to respond promptly, as quick replies can make a significant difference in building rapport and trust with clients. You can also set up automated responses in Messenger to engage with users while unavailable, but remember to follow up personally as soon as possible. Hack 3: Boost Your Best Posts While organic reach can be powerful, advertising on Facebook by boosting your posts will expose you to a larger audience. Facebook's algorithms typically only show a small percentage of your content to your followers – just 2.2 percent! By boosting your best posts – those with high engagement or valuable content – you can ensure they're seen by more people, generating more leads and interest in your listings. Start with a small budget and experiment with different targeting options to maximize your advertising efforts. Hack 4: Create and Share Short, Engaging Videos Video content has become increasingly popular on social media, and it's an excellent way to showcase your listings and local knowledge. According to research, half of social media users prefer video over other types of content. More than half (58 percent) of viewers will watch a business' entire video if it's less than 60 seconds. Creating short videos is the key: highlight only a property's best features or showcase nearby attractions and amenities. Remember that "Top 5" videos are especially effective: think "Top 5 Restaurants in [Neighborhood]" or "Top 5 Instagram sites in [City]." Remember to upload your videos directly to Facebook – never linking to a video site – as native Facebook videos tend to get more views and engagement. Facebook video posts had an organic reach rate of 8.71 percent, higher than any other content type on the platform in 2019. Hack 5: Monitor Posts and Engage with Your Audience Interacting with your audience is essential for building relationships and fostering trust. Monitor your posts closely and respond to comments and messages thoughtfully and personally. Avoid generic responses and, instead, try to connect with users on a deeper level. For example, if someone comments on a post about a pet-friendly property, ask them about their pets or share a story about a pet you've had. Pets are a popular way to engage your audience, as more American households today have pets than children. This personal touch can make a significant difference in turning followers into clients. Bottom line Leveraging these five Facebook hacks can dramatically improve your social media presence, help you reach a wider audience, and generate more leads for your real estate business. By embracing the power of cute, utilizing Facebook Messenger, boosting your best posts, creating engaging video content, and interacting thoughtfully with your audience, you will help grow your online visibility and presence, and that's a sure way to help you grow your real estate business. And remember, when the time comes to process your real estate transactions, use Form Simplicity for a smooth, digital experience. This real estate transaction management software is a leading platform and available nationwide. Tricia Stamper is Director of Technology at Florida Realtors®, which owns and operates Tech Helpline and Form Simplicity.

Why Agents Need to Think More About the Consumer Experience
We know you're focused on generating the best outcome for your real estate transactions. You work hard to find buyer clients a home that fulfills their wants and needs, is in the right location, and is listed at the right price. You do your best to help seller leads create a compelling listing for their properties, select the right buyer, and negotiate on behalf of their best interests. You already know what you need to do to generate a successful closing — but it's not all about the destination. For your real estate clients, it's also about the journey. Why the Experience Your Clients Has Is So Important The process of buying or selling a home can draw up many emotions, and the escrow process isn't always common knowledge among consumers — especially first-timers. Buyers and sellers want to have a smooth real estate transaction experience, and they place their trust in agents to serve as their guides. Giving your clients a good experience is how you lock in a lifelong client and potentially access referrals. If someone enjoyed working with you, it's likely that they'll call you when they're ready for their next transaction. When someone they know is looking for a real estate agent, they'd recommend your services. This is one way to build up a strong reputation in your area and gain more market share. Pro Tip: Remember, past clients are like a hidden gold mine in your real estate database. They already know what it's like to work with you, so most of the work it takes to convert them is already done. If you want to reap the benefits of happy clients that keep on coming back and sending strong leads your way, make sure that you're providing excellent service and unbeatable transaction experiences. 4 Things to Do to Create Amazing Consumer Experiences Start improving your consumer experience today by adopting these four best practices. 1. Provide Digestible Information Not every buyer and seller is a real estate expert. As an agent, you can help your clients feel comfortable and confident with their transactions by providing them with easy-to-understand educational resources. Break down the information so that it's easy for them to digest without feeling overwhelmed. Help your clients understand why you're deploying specific strategies. Tell buyers why you suggest submitting an earnest money deposit if the market is particularly competitive. Help sellers understand how you're pricing their listing based on comparables and market conditions. Pro Tip: Going the extra mile to walk your clients through their transaction strategy will demonstrate your expertise and knowledge. You'll position yourself as an irreplaceable asset in their real estate transaction, helping you build a lifelong relationship with the people you work with. 2. Make Yourself Available Your clients want to have someone to reach out to when they have questions or need something. Making yourself available is one of the best ways that you can curate a pleasant experience for consumers. Get back to them when they message you. Call them back as quickly as you can. Contact them first to address unspoken concerns that you may have picked up on. Remember, buyers and sellers have a lot on the line. They don't want to be left in the dark or feel like they're being put on the back burner. Show them that they're a priority by being there for them when they need you. 3. Make Sure They Feel Heard Buying and selling a home can be an emotional process for many people, and clients want to work with an agent that understands and supports their needs. Above all, your clients want to feel heard. When they speak to you about something, actively listen. If they're voicing concerns, asking questions, or explaining their circumstances, take the time to listen to them and let them know that you understand. If you're unsure about anything, ask questions to learn more. Be fully engaged, and keep track of what clients tell you so you can reference it down the line. Once they've fully communicated what it is they had to tell you, provide them with actionable feedback. If they're having an issue, provide options for solutions with gentle recommendations. If they had a question, provide them with educational resources to help them learn about the topic. Provide customized solutions for their needs and do what you can to address their unique circumstances. 4. Provide a Seamless Technology Experience Your clients don't want to be burdened with any gaps or glitches. They want a smooth and streamlined transaction process that's optimized by best-in-class technology — not one that's weighed down by complicated digital processes. Today's consumers want Amazon speed and boutique service. Deploying the right technology solutions can help you foster a seamless technology-powered experience for your consumers. When building out your tech toolkit, think about how each tool will impact your customer experience. Prioritize software that is easy to use, mobile, and consumer-friendly. To view the original article, visit the BoomTown blog.

[Podcast] Creating Video Content as a Realtor with Peter Flores
Peter Flores is a Realtor at Compass who has over two decades of real estate, business, commercial, and corporate banking experience. His passion is helping people find their dream home and make the process as easy and stress-free as possible. Hear how to create video content as a Realtor, get over video hurdles, grow your following, what equipment to get, and how to use your video content as a lead generation tool. This episode covers everything from creating videos to finding a business coach. Here's a small sample of what you will hear in this episode: When did Peter become a Realtor? What does he attribute his success so far to? How frequently should you post videos? What do you do if you don't have many followers? How do you grow your following? Why should you upgrade your equipment? Do you need a CRM? How many DMs did Peter get during this interview? Connect with Peter on Instagram @iAmPeterFlores and TikTok @RealPeterFlores. Check out the episode and show notes below for much more detail. Listen on: Spotify Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Visit the episode homepage for show notes and more detail.

Real Estate Tips: Use Confident Body Language to Generate Business
When you are trying to build rapport, engage real estate clients in a conversation or influence an action, you need to be conscious of how your approach is impacting clients. Awareness of what you're saying is just the tip of the iceberg. Words are important, but you also need to be aware of how you're saying it and what your body language is communicating. As a real estate professional, you should always be mindful of your body language. It influences the first impression you make on others and can attract or repel potential clients. Do you fidget when you're talking to your prospective clients? Where are your hands? What is your posture like? Are you authentic and welcoming? If you're confident, you will not only impress those your talking to, but you'll have a more self-confidence as well. Follow these five real estate tips on using confident body language to excel in your business and personal interactions: Claim Your Territory When you walk into a room, be confident in your movements. Don't cross your arms or hunch your shoulders. When sitting, practice an expansive body language — take up as much space as possible without invading your client's personal space to appear powerful and assertive. Pay Attention to Micro Expressions Our brain makes snap judgments based on facial micro expressions — very brief, involuntary facial expressions displayed when someone experiences an emotion. Pay attention to whoever you are talking to "flashing' any of these seven micro-expressions so you can address them right away: disgust, anger, fear, sadness, happiness, surprise or contempt. Don't Fidget Be aware of any fidgeting, nervous cues or self-soothing behaviors (e.g. wringing hands, touching your hair, cracking knuckles, rubbing arms, biting your lips). These are all signs of being self conscious. To portray confidence, keep your arms loose and open and remain calm and composed. Steeple Your Hands "Steepling' is when someone brings their hands up in front of their chest and presses the tips of their fingers together. This is a gesture of confidence and self-assuredness. Use it strategically when listening attentively to your clients or prospects. Don't Nod Your Head Too Often While you want to appear friendly, don't overdo it by nodding your head too much. That can create an impression that you are a pushover. Only nod when you really agree with someone to give your opinion more weight. In some cases, you can also use a triple nod to encourage someone to keep talking. Use these tips as a handy reference on how to portray confident body language when you're about to have a meeting with one of your prospective or current clients. Keep in mind, your non-verbal and verbal communication must match. People will always pay more attention and give more credence to your body language that to what you're saying. To view the original article, visit the Zurple blog.

Opinions Wanted: Share Your Thoughts on AI in Real Estate in This Survey
As a valued real estate professional, we're interested in learning about your experiences with AI, specifically OpenAI's ChatGPT, and how it's impacting your work in the industry. Your valuable insights will help us understand the current state of AI usage in real estate and guide future developments. Please take a few minutes to complete our brief survey, and share your thoughts on AI's potential, challenges, and benefits in the real estate industry. Your feedback is crucial in shaping the future of AI for real estate professionals like you. Thank you for your time and contribution to this important research. We appreciate your input and look forward to learning from your experiences. Take the survey now!

3 Tips for 'Spring Cleaning' Your Real Estate Business
The hot summer housing market is just around the corner. Is your real estate business ready? All agents who want this season to be their most successful one yet should be taking a moment to prepare for the upcoming shifts in the market. Typically, summertime sees a surge of buyer demand alongside more homeowners listing their properties for sale. According to a study that investigated the times of the year when people are more likely to move, June is one of the busiest months — with July 31 being the single most busy day for moving in the U.S. For agents, this means that more buyers and sellers usually enter the market at this bustling time of year. If you want to capitalize on these opportunities and lock in more transactions to grow your business, there are steps you can already start taking to prepare for the summer real estate rush. 3 Best Practices to Prepare for Real Estate's Summer Rush Agents, it's time to take notes. We've put together three must-do tasks to help you strategically "spring clean" your real estate business. From optimizing your workflow to making sure that your tech stack is equipped to boost its bandwidth, here's everything you need to do. 1. Polish Up Your CRM Contact List First things first, it all starts with your CRM. Your database of contacts is like a gold mine for your business — but whether or not you activate its full potential depends on how you leverage it. To ensure that your database is ready to roll into real estate's busiest time of year, take some time to review your contacts. Correct any errors, add any additional insights you may have, and tag all of your contacts under the correct categories — so you'll know at a glance where they lie in your funnel (are they lukewarm, cold, or ultra-hot?) and what their transaction type is (buyers, sellers, downsizing?). Having a clean contact database means that when you get a rush of new leads, you're prepared to do your best business and use your CRM to its full potential. 2. Audit Your Technology Tools If you haven't performed a technology audit recently, now is a great time to make sure that all of your tools are working well for your business. Look for any possible system upgrades or new offerings that may be available to improve your efficiency. We recommend doing some quick research on the websites of your tech providers or reaching out to service teams to get the inside scoop on all things new. As you review your current set of technologies, prioritize automation — which can help you do more without actually having to do more. To streamline everywhere you can to get the maximum efficiency out of your tech software, make sure that you're leveraging smart integrations. Automation frees up time in your day while giving you access to more business opportunities. 3. Enhance Your Drip Email Marketing Campaigns Are your drip email campaigns in need of a refresher? As you're automating your workflow, make sure to give your nurture campaigns some TLC before summertime hits. Revisit your action plan and customize your nurture cadence to make sure that you're hitting the optimum number of touchpoints — which is 10, per lead, per month — and are reaching out on diverse platforms, like email, text, social media ads, and more. To view the original article, visit the BoomTown blog.

The Hidden Costs of DIY Presale Renovations: A Guide for Real Estate Agents
As a real estate agent representing sellers today, you may find homeowners are eager to maximize their return on investments and be tempted to take on DIY improvement projects. To help your sellers make the right choice, it is crucial to understand the risks and potential pitfalls of pre-sale renovations. Every DIY project comes with pitfalls. But few projects take on the magnitude or the impact of a DIY home renovation undertaking. The challenges associated with DIY presale renovations can lead to significant setbacks with hidden costs that are only uncovered after it is too late. Let's look at some of the most common hidden costs that are typical to sellers wanting to do their own upgrades and repairs compared to the advantages of partnering with a professional firm with a proven track record that specializes in presale renovations. 1. Time and effort Sellers often underestimate the time and effort required to complete DIY presale renovations. What may seem like a simple project that might take a few days can quickly turn into weeks or even months of work. As a result, the property won't be on the market when planned, causing the seller to lose potential buyers, and possibly compromise the listing as the homeowner may become overwhelmed by what their undertaking and decide to wait to sell. 2. Inexperience and mistakes Homeowners who lack experience in home improvement may make costly mistakes during the renovation process. Incorrect installations, poor quality materials, and lack of attention to detail can lead to further expenses down the line. Hiring a professional firm with in-house designers, project leaders, and a network of professional, high-quality contractors ensures the job is done right the first time, saving your clients from these costly errors. 3. Permits and building codes Many homeowners are unaware of the need to apply for building permits and the impact of local building codes that regulate renovation projects. Navigating this complex process can be time-consuming and often frustrating – especially for someone who is inexperienced in dealing with local government regulations. Failure to obtain the necessary permits may lead to fines, delays, and even the need to redo the project. A professional presale renovation firm knows the permitting process, understands local building code requirements, and can handle all the necessary paperwork, saving your clients time and potential headaches. 4. Safety risks DIY presale renovations can present safety hazards for inexperienced homeowners. Electrical, plumbing, and structural work can be dangerous if not performed correctly. Many of these projects require licensed and certified professionals, all of whom have liability insurance coverage. The risk of injury or property damage increases when homeowners try to tackle these projects on their own. A professional firm that specializes in renovations will have the necessary safety equipment, training, expertise, and insurance coverage in place to complete the job safely and reduce homeowner risks. 5. Reduced resale value In a worst-case scenario, when a DIY presale renovation is executed poorly, it can actually decrease the value of the home. Potential buyers are turned off by subpar work and may factor in the cost of correcting mistakes when making their offers. Hiring a professional firm specializing in presale renovations ensures high-quality work that adds value to the property. Bottom line While a DIY presale renovation may seem like a cost-effective solution for sellers, the hidden expenses and potential risks make it a highly unattractive option. As a real estate agent representing sellers, it's essential to educate your clients about these overlooked aspects. You can help your sellers by guiding them to partner with a professional presale renovation firm. By doing so, you'll help your clients avoid costly mistakes, ensure they experience a smoother selling process, and most importantly, help them obtain the best possible sale price for their home. Dalip Jaggi is at once an active entrepreneur, a highly skilled technologist, and a profoundly passionate business leader. Today, Dalip is co-founder of Revive Real Estate, a PropTech with a goal to democratize house flipping.