Today's real estate landscape is radically evolving due to the recent NAR Settlement. This is particularly true for how you as an agent working with buyers should handle the newly mandated Buyer Agreement (abbreviation in this article will be BA). Although BAs are not new, they were often overlooked in practice, except in some states that required them by law. As a result of the NAR Settlement, BAs will now be required for all "MLS participants" that are "working with" buyers. Come August, you as a buyer's agent must have your buyers sign an agreement of compensation before you can show them homes. And the biggest change is that it is now the buyer's responsibility to pay you directly, rather than the seller. This represents a radical change in the industry which has for decades placed … [Read more...] about How to Leverage the New Buyer Agreements
How to Market Yourself for Best Results in 2024
As a real estate professional working strictly on commission, you are your own rainmaker. Coming on the tail of foundational changes in the real estate industry, this can feel more daunting than ever. By and large, successful agents are hard workers and earn every penny of their commission. In addition to bringing in new business, finessing relationships, and negotiating contracts, there is also the critical need to consistently and constantly market yourself. Marketing is about maximum visibility to past, present and future clients and it's a must for any business. Sadly, it's often the first thing to go when things get busy or lean. But it's at exactly those times when you need to lean in to your marketing program. Here's how to market yourself for best results in 2024: … [Read more...] about How to Market Yourself for Best Results in 2024
Ten Ways to Get Ready for an Energy Efficient Summer
Getting your home ready for an energy-efficient summer is a great way to reduce your energy costs, which you may have noticed are creeping higher and higher. Following are ten ways to get ready for an energy efficient summer: … [Read more...] about Ten Ways to Get Ready for an Energy Efficient Summer
How to Break Into the Listing Game
More than ever, success in real estate hinges on mastering your role as a listing agent. As the saying goes, "list to last." Once you are able to build your reputation as the go-to for sellers in your neighborhood, you will see your business snowball. Future sellers will see your yard signs, note how long it takes for the "pending" rider to fall into place, and act accordingly. Getting that first listing can seem monumental, but accomplishing that--and more importantly, the timely sale that goes along with it--will literally transform your business. Following is how to break into the listing game: … [Read more...] about How to Break Into the Listing Game
Mother’s Day Gifts for the Mom who Loves the Great Outdoors
So your mom is not the "breakfast-in-bed followed- by-a-manicure" type. If your mom craves the great outdoors and all it offers, following are some great out-of-the-box gift considerations - because you know your mom does not like to be boxed in. Here are ideas for Mother's Day gifts for the Mom who loves the Great Outdoors: … [Read more...] about Mother’s Day Gifts for the Mom who Loves the Great Outdoors