It goes without saying that marketing is vital to any business and can be the deciding factor between ho-hum and amazing. But real estate marketing demands an additional facet. This is truly a profession where relationship-building takes center stage. But wait, there's more. Lots mores. In addition to being well-liked, the ability to navigate a mountain of legal forms, deadlines, and industry best practices separates the amateur from the successful veteran. A truly great agent is able to juggle an impressive array of balls without missing a beat. This combination of relationship savvy, industry know-how and impeccable timing will create a brand worthy of notice. And for some extra tips, here's how to bolster your brand in 2025: … [Read more...] about How to Bolster Your Brand in 2025
A Quick Explanation of the Clear Cooperation Policy
If you've been paying attention to recent industry news then you'll be familiar with the latest kerfuffle in the real estate world: Clear Cooperation. In 2020 the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) adopted a national policy known as Clear Cooperation. On its surface, it was a response to further answer the call for fair housing. But it also came with a number of strings attached, most notably the mandate to put all new listings on the MLS or face stiff fines and penalties. Now that NAR has inextricably landed in the high beams of the DOJ, it's not surprising that the policy of Clear Cooperation has come under its scrutiny. And more notable still is the amount of disagreement--both for and against the policy--among industry professionals. So if you're scratching your head and wondering … [Read more...] about A Quick Explanation of the Clear Cooperation Policy
How to Make the Most of the New Rules on Your Next Listing Presentation
The NAR Settlement went into effect on August 17th, but has been making headlines for the last year. Brought about by several class-action lawsuits and with the weight of the DOJ behind it, the Settlement has effectively changed the way that agents get paid and by whom. As the new reality sets in there still remains a lot of confusion. Keep in mind the new rules* are designed to do several things: Relieve sellers from the obligation of paying commission to the buyer's agent; prohibit advertising an offer of compensation on the MLS; and make it harder for agents to steer clients based on commission amounts. The goal is total transparency. As the new rules relate to the business of listings, your best way forward is to face this head on. Here's how to make the most of the new rules on your … [Read more...] about How to Make the Most of the New Rules on Your Next Listing Presentation
How to Get Your Windows Ready for Cooler Temps
Your window insulation is the perfect place to begin to get your windows ready for cooler temps. Here's how to get your windows ready for cooler temps: … [Read more...] about How to Get Your Windows Ready for Cooler Temps
How to Make the Most of the New Rules on Your Next Open House
The new commission rules as per the NAR Settlement in mid August are now in full force. It's impressive to see how most agents are nimbly navigating and evolving to meet the new requirements and do business as usual. Now more than ever it's important to develop a mindset that embraces - and makes the most of - the still-new commission rules. One effective way to do this is to double-down on your next Open House. The Open House marketplace can create opportunities to bring in more qualified buyers. Although the new commission rules add the burden of ever-increasing paperwork, it's possible to turn those lemons into lemonade. Here's how to make the most of the new rules on your next Open House: … [Read more...] about How to Make the Most of the New Rules on Your Next Open House