‘Should I pay down a collection?’ How to answer clients

Consumers who’ve had a collection hit their credit report might be wondering if they should pay it off or hold off. Micah Curtis shares the right move to make — and the answer is not what you might think. Continue reading

How long will the housing shortage last? Years — here’s why

Thinking optimistically and knowing a little about U.S. homebuilders and American ingenuity, builders might create an average of 2 million homes annually and achieve a supply-demand balance in about six years. Continue reading

3 ways to boost buyers’ confidence in a hot seller’s market

Although guiding homebuyers through a competitive market is a challenge, it’s important to encourage them to be patient and trust the process. Here are a few ways to prepare your clients and help them stay ahead of the game. Continue reading

Think before you post! The line between funny and unprofessional isn’t so fine

The real estate business is insane right now. You’ve got frustrated buyers. You’re (rightfully) frustrated — and humor is a great escape. However, it’s also rife with danger. Here’s why you should think before you post. Continue reading

7 crazy critter encounters in real estate — and what to do about them

Stumbling across snakes, raccoons, coyotes and other wild animals during a showing isn’t ideal — and oftentimes, it can even ruin a deal. Here are some steps to take (and the appropriate disclosures to make) when it comes to unwanted critters. Continue reading

7 things new agents should do every day for a year

New agents are constantly asking Mauricio Umansky, founder and CEO of The Agency, what he did in his first year as an agent to lay the foundation for his career. Here, he shares the daily habits that helped set him up for success. Continue reading

10 new construction gotchas agents should watch out for

Navigating new construction is like walking through a field of landmines right now. You can never really be certain of the ground you are setting foot on because all continues to change at a rapid pace. Here are 10 things to watch out for when crossing… Continue reading

Inman Handbook: How not to lose your real estate license

More than ever before, real estate agents and brokers are taking a close look at whether common practices are the same as best practices. Learn and understand the types of behaviors that can result in disciplinary action and the process that follows to… Continue reading

4 ways to turn happy clients into your biggest advocates 

To stand out in a crowded, competitive market, it’s important to leverage the most valuable marketing channel available: word-of-mouth. Here are a few ways to use client success stories to generate more business. Continue reading

How to effectively clean a smoker’s house

The smell of smoke can not only drastically reduce a home’s resale value, it can also be harmful to the health of the home’s new buyers. Here are a few ways to get the stubborn smell of smoke and its residue out of house. Continue reading