Real estate agents make great brokers. Take the next step in your career with Allied's Real Estate Broker License Courses. Be prepared to assume a management role in a real estate office as you oversee the entire real estate process. Receive a high-level of knowledge that includes advanced real estate practice, law, finance, appraisal, economics, property management, escrow, and/or real estate office administration.
Sellers are required by law to disclose any problems about a house - in fact, 30 states have disclosure laws. However in a tough market, when homes are listed for a long period of time, sometimes sellers tell little white lies to help their home get sold. Here's a list of these lies and how buyers can determine the real truth:
- Overemphasizing the square footage and lot size: Because the buyer probably doesn't walk around with a tape measure, he or she is going to be inclined to accept the given measurements. However, if there is a discrepancy, the truth is going to come out in the appraisal. And sellers must beware - smaller dimensions on a house can lead to a lower appraisal and jeopardize the sale.
- Failure to disclose major damage: With the necessary repairs all fixed and a seemingly damage-free house on hand, sellers may be reluctant to tell the buyer about a major event that occurred in the house. However, all the buyer has to do is buy a report from the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) to learn first-hand the home's history of damage.
- Underreporting the tax and heating costs: High extra costs on a home can be a deterrent for some homebuyers, so sellers sometimes feel the need to paint a more positive picture when it comes to taxes and heating bills. However, the buyer has the right to ask to see recent bills and can view tax records at the tax assessor's office. Additionally, buyers need to look out for any unrecorded improvements, which can adversely affect these extra costs.
The bottom line is that it is never a good idea for the seller to misrepresent any factors relating to a home's condition or up-keep. And it is a real estate broker's job to ensure that all of the presented facts are correct. The truth will most likely always come out and it is beneficial for all parties that a home is fairly and accurately represented, in any type of market.
(Source: The Wall Street Journal, M.P. McQueen, 1/14/2010)
Labels: Real Estate Broker
more>>Posted by Heather Brunson @ 9:16 AM • 0 comments
As a real estate broker, is there anything better than free advertising that reaches over a million people? We're not talking about print advertising here, but online - which is where the vast majority of home buyers begin their home search. Websites like Zillow.com and Trulia.com are making it possible via free bulk data feeds.
Advertising is costly. Taking advantage of bulk data feeds is not. Basically, a feed is an easy way to automatically drive your listings to participating websites. Take the Zillow Listings Feed Program for example - this free service allows brokerages to reach a much broader audience. So, whether you just received your real estate broker license or you're a manager coaching a team of agents - this technology benefits all.
The bulk data feed technology is continually improving. For example, on July 23, 2008, Zillow.com announced an expansion in the total for-sale listings on their site. Zillow sends interested home buyers back to the websites of their partner brokerages, so bulk data feed technology provides another stream of potential leads.
Brokerages can take advantage of a variety of bulk data feeds, like OpenHouse.com, which targets consumers searching for open houses. New feeds are popping up on a regular basis, so pay attention, evaluate your options, and if you locate a good fit, test it out. Though not all feeds may be free, most provide viable, cost-effective advertising solutions.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Real Estate School, www.brokerlicense.com
Labels: brokerage, Real Estate Broker, real estate license, trulia, zillow
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 10:31 AM • 0 comments
Obtain a real estate broker license and you'll use an array of advertising angles to attract business. Be careful. Violating Fair Housing Act guidelines in your advertising is easier than you think.
Words or descriptions that seem harmless to you may be offensive to others. So how do you stay compliant? The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has created a set of advertising guidelines to follow. They consider discriminatory advertising to be:
1. An advertisement that consists of words, phrases or visuals that insinuate a discriminatory preference or limitation.
2. An advertisement that uses certain media, logos and/or locations that insinuate a discriminatory preference or limitation.
3. Discriminatory advertising that violates the Fair Housing Act.
Before you finalize your advertisements, review them carefully and make sure they don't exclude anyone based on race, religion, sex, family status or physical capabilities. For more information, visit www.hud.gov.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,
Labels: Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Broker License, real estate broker school
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 3:06 PM • 0 comments
Get your real estate broker license and you'll be responsible for handling clients' personal data. From social security numbers to bank accounts, make sure you store and dispose of this private data with the utmost care.
Lock Your Cabinets
A real estate transaction requires a great amount of personal information. Mistakes managing brokers should avoid include leaving bank statements or social security information unattended on a fax machine or desk. Keep this vulnerable information in a locked cabinet.
Stay Organized
Do have random files saved all over your desktop or are you still trying to find that PDF you know you saved three days ago? When you're organized, your client's information is safer. And there's some great organizational software solutions specifically designed for the real estate professional. Check out the latest real estate wiki at www.realestatewiki.com for a list of real estate software providers.
Maintain Security Software
Yes, it's time for yet another update to your security software. Don't ignore it or postpone it for a later time. Keeping antivirus and spyware software current is an essential layer in the information protection game.
Back-up Uour Data
Don't leave sensitive data on your desktop or laptop. Instead, move the data to an external storage device for safe keeping.
Utilize Passwords
Use passwords to protect access to all of your electronics. This includes using strong passwords that consist of numbers, letters and symbols. Change your passwords regularly and make sure to use a different password for each electronic device.
Dispose of Old Data Carefully
Shredding unwanted documents should already be a part of your routine. However, CD's & DVD's containing important data must be destroyed too. Also, make sure to fully erase storage devices when getting rid of old computers or other electronic devices. Check with your local computer store and get the most effective tools for permanently clearing all data.
Share Your System
Make sure clients know that you place great importance on protecting their personal information. Sharing your privacy policy with them can help build trust and strengthen your relationship.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com
Labels: Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Broker License, your clients
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 9:55 AM • 0 comments
If you have your real estate broker license, you're probably a member of the National Association of Realtors. And membership has its benefits. NAR's exclusive REALTOR Benefits Program is a case in point.
NAR has partnered with a variety of well-known companies to offer agents value-packed deals on all kinds of products and services. Agents can find great deals on marketing, electronics, insurance, real estate courses, office supplies, car rental and publications.
Want some examples of how you can benefit? Agents receive a 40 to 55% discount on National Relocation & Real Estate magazine. Lowe's Home Improvement Store will send direct mail rebate offers to your prospects customized with your photo and company logo for free. FedEx even created a special website just for NAR members where agents receive discounts on shipping services.
Savor the benefits of having a real estate broker career and go to www.realtor.org to download a copy of the latest REALTOR Benefits Program Resource Guide. Make sure to check out the limited-time offers too, which until May 19, include up to a $574 discount on ThinkPad Notebooks.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com
Labels: broker career, Real Estate Broker, real estate broker career
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 1:00 PM • 0 comments
Do you use your real estate broker license wisely? You're a leader, so keep your management tactics fresh by avoiding these six managing broker mistakes.
1) Not maintaining your boundaries.
It's nice to be liked by everyone, but be realistic. As managing broker, you must create clear boundaries between being too friendly and too distant. A great manager should be trusted, respected and applies the same rules to all who report to them.
2) Not keeping up on your continuing education.
Be a good role model for your agents - stay on top of your career! This means taking care of your broker license renewal in advance and adapting your management techniques to reflect what you learn from your continuing education courses.
3) Not responding to your sales team's feedback.
When your agents offer suggestions or present ideas, don't be unresponsive. Instead, listen, don't interrupt and show your appreciation for their input. Show your sales team you value them by implementing as many as their ideas as possible. And if you say you're going to do something, make sure you do - actions speak louder than words. Managing brokers who are insincere loose respect quickly.
4) Not creating an environment of accountability.
Establish goals for your agents, individually and as a team, and hold them to it. For example, create a system that holds agents accountable for the leads they receive. When did they contact the lead, what was the result and has a follow-up date been established? Require this information on your desk every morning.
Another example is working with new agents. Set a probationary period where their employment is contingent upon meeting several goals. If they don't meet their goals, it's like they're firing them self.
5) Not spending time in the field.
It's easy to get caught up in day-to-day tasks, reports and meetings. Although important, do you take the time to find out what makes your agents tick? Spend time with your sales team and learn what motivates them. Find out what their individual strengths and weaknesses are, than develop training programs that improve the bad and capitalize on the good.
6) Not being honest with yourself.
A real estate broker career is not for everyone. If you find your passion is purely sales and not so much management, than follow your heart. You owe it to yourself, but more importantly, to your agents who need an inspiring, trustworthy coach who's comfortable in their role as the fearless leader.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,Real Estate Broker Schools
Labels: Real Estate Agent, Real Estate Broker, real estate broker education
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 7:43 AM • 0 comments
You've worked with sellers, buyers and you're ready for a new challenge. Want to learn how to become a real estate broker? Getting your real estate broker license is easier than you think.
Although requirements for obtaining a real estate broker license vary from state to state, most require you to:
1) Hold a current, state-issued real estate license for 1 to 3 years
(some states waive this requirement for those holding a B.A. degree in real estate)
2) Complete required broker qualification course work
3) Pass your state's real estate broker license exam
Your required broker qualification courses must be completed at a school with the proper accreditation or at a private real estate school with state approved courses. And times have changed. To obtain a real estate broker license, agents use to have one choice - spend several hours per week attending class. Although this is a good fit for some, it's not the most efficient option for all.
As an entrepreneur, agents need to be available when their clients need them. That's why some choose to take online real estate broker courses. Many online classes are self-paced and can be completed from an agent's office or home during their free time. It's a convenient and cost-effective way to further one's real estate career, while ensuring clients are taken care of.
Once a broker license is obtained, new and exciting career opportunities become available. Brokers and agents do the same type of work, but brokers are licensed to manage their own real estate businesses or can become a branch manager for a privately owned real estate company. Brokers can also make franchise agreements with national or regional real estate companies. This means the broker pays a fee in order to be associated with a well-established brand name, receive help with training, receive access to proprietary tools and more.
A career as a real estate broker may be the rewarding challenge you're looking for. Verify requirements by checking with your state's real estate licensing commission.
By Danielle Macklin,Allied Schools,www.brokerlicense.com
Labels: Real Estate Agent, Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Broker License
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 8:59 AM • 0 comments
If sales decrease in your area, office gripes may increase. Use knowledge gained from obtaining your Real Estate Broker License, keep complaints in check and lead your team by example.
1) Show, don't tell - Actions can speak louder than words. If you stomp around the office with a frown, don't expect your sales team to feel inspired. You are the leader with the Real Estate Broker License knowledge they look to for direction. Demonstrate confidence and smile - especially at your weekly office meetings where energy levels should be highest. Get agents to share success stories. By sharing, you're showing them if others can do it, so can they.
2) Organize a meeting of the minds - Provide complainers an opportunity to voice their concerns. Typically, negative agents are those who are struggling the most. At the meeting, arrange for the positive agents to share their techniques and brainstorm solutions to each problem. On whiteboards or poster boards, post the complaints with the solutions in a common area so they stay fresh in the naysayer mind.
3) Open your ears - If your agent has a complaint, more than anything, they want to be heard. While they speak, use non-verbal techniques, like nodding, that show you understand them. Don't speak until your agent is finished. Once you fully understand the situation, you can more effectively address them.
4) Create a positive atmosphere - Create a happy office culture and agents will want to be there. Plan events where agents get to know each other. This can include everything from happy hour to supporting local charitable causes.
5) Deal with office gossip - Is someone in your office creating an atmosphere of animosity because of hurtful gossip? Build morale back up by speaking directly with the gossiper and their target, or rather, their peer. More than likely, the gossip spreader will recoil, taking on a more demure, toned-down role in your office.
6) Make confrontations positive - Speak with a problematic agent in private, clearly state the problem followed by the need for a solution. Don't allow the agent to shift the topic to the faults of others. Your meeting is just about their behavior, how it contributes to a negative atmosphere and how their sales would benefit by switching their focus back to their job - selling real estate.
7) Back-up your warnings - Sometimes a calm demeanor, a title of authority and the management expertise gained from a Real Estate Broker License may not be enough to reason with a difficult personality. If an agent in your office has been warned, yet they repeatedly destroy office morale, show them the closest exit. Negativity is contagious, so cut it off at the epicenter before is spreads.
By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,www.brokerlicense.com
Labels: Real Estate Broker
more>>Posted by Danielle Macklin @ 11:19 AM • 0 comments
In some real estate markets, the number of active listings dramatically increases every week. As a seller, how do you plan on making your home stand out among the thousands of available properties? Don't fall into the category of stumped sellers whose properties linger on the market for months to come. Check out these 8 helpful tips and maybe even get the fair selling price you desire!
- Complete that nagging "to do" list - Most sellers have a list of items that could use a little polishing, or perhaps, an entire overhaul. Take the time to replace a ripped window screen, add a fresh coat of paint or replant colorful flowers. Simple touches like these can add thousands of dollars to your bottom line.
- Get inspected - Pre-sale inspections aren't extremely common, but what a way to show hesitate buyers that your home is in top form, especially if the report is made available during open houses. On the other hand, discovering potential problems ahead of time will allow you to handle them without scaring off your potential buyer.
- Get rid of clutter - Does your front lawn come complete with ceramic garden gnomes or does your kitchen table look like scrap booking central? If so, this suggestion is for you! Potential buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, but if it’s cluttered with too much stuff, it's an instant turn-off. Pack it away!
- Create a neutral palette - After getting rid of clutter, a seller must depersonalize their home. Items like family photos or personal collections should also be packed away. A seller can benefit by replacing strong wall colors, wallpapers and other decorative preferences with a neutral shade. For example, maybe that pink carpet called out to you at the time, but it could repel potential buyers not interested in making the extra investment to change it. Your agent can provide the best advice and suggest a staging expert if necessary.
- Clean like never before - Remember, you want potential buyers to walk in and instantly imagine their new lives unfolding. However, if the baseboards are filthy, the stove reveals residue from last night's dinner or the smell of fluffy the cat lingers in the air, your home may drive buyers away. Create a thorough cleaning checklist and perform each duty no less than once a week. If it's within your budget, consider hiring a professional cleaning service.
- First impressions - Are you losing potential buyers before they even get to your front door? These days, most buyers are beginning their home search on the web. Make sure your home stands out by posting quality photos. Those important photos will capture your hard work at removing clutter, depersonalizing and creating an inviting neutral space that will surely intrigue a buyer to inquire further information.
- Pick the right licensed agent - Working with an agent? Choose wisely! Ask friends, family and coworkers if they have any references for top agents. Do your homework, visit websites and find out which agents know your community best. The agent you choose should not only present extensive market knowledge, but must also be honest and personable towards all parties involved.
- Set a fair price - Do you know what the comparable home sales in your area are for the last six months? What about the average days-on-the-market? This kind of data is essential to pricing your home fairly and competitively. Check out sites like www.trulia.com for estimates or consult a licensed agent who has access to market software.
Labels: broker tip, how to sell your home, Real Estate Broker
more>>Posted by Allied Blogger Admin @ 10:39 AM • 0 comments
