Real Estate Broker

Americans Still Want to Buy Houses

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Darany) — Fri, 09 Apr 2010 23:51:00 +0000

Ready to obtain your real estate broker's license? Now may be the right time to make your move. According to a CNNMoney.com article, Americans are still passionate about owing a home - they are just proceeding with greater caution. Check out an excerpt from the article:

Nearly two-thirds of Americans would still prefer to own a home, although the recent housing market turmoil and uncertain economy have made them a little more cautious about how and when, according to a survey released Tuesday.

A nationwide survey conducted by mortgage lender Fannie Mae found 65% of the homeowners and renters believe there is still value in owning a home.

But the survey also suggests that potential home buyers have become more cautious in the years since the housing bubble burst, giving rise to a wave of foreclosures and a severe recession.

"Consumers are still committed to owning a home, but are showing increased cautiousness," said Doug Duncan, chief economist at Fannie Mae.

He said the downturn in the housing market has led to a "rebalancing" of consumer attitudes towards homeownership. Americans are adopting a more realistic approach and are now less willing to take risks, he said.

The survey showed that home buyers are growing more concerned with longer- term priorities, as opposed to the house "flipping" mentality that characterized the market during the boom years.

Over 40% said personal safety was their main consideration when buying a home, while a third indicated that the quality of local schools was the dominant factor.

Multi-Generational Family Households are Once Again on the Rise

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Brunson) — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 23:04:00 +0000

After dwindling to just 12 percent in the 1980s, the multi-generational family is now once again on the rise. In fact, as of 2008, 49 million Americans, or 16.1% of the total U.S. population, lived in this type of household.

Based on an analysis of census data from the Pew Research Center, a multi-generational family household is defined as a household that contains at least two adult generations or a grandparent and at least one other generation.

Why the surge in multi-generational family households? The Pew study cites these main factors:
- job losses
- home foreclosures
- demographic changes

From the 1940s to the 1970s, there was rapid growth in the number of nuclear family-centered suburbs, a smaller immigrant population, and a rise in the health and economic well-being of adults ages 65 and older. Today, the multi-generational family household is having a resurgence, which Pew attributes to both social and economic reasons above.

Does this signal a potential increase in real estate opportunities? There may be an increased need for larger-sized homes that can accommodate a greater number of people. Also, multiple sources of income may make it easier for people to qualify for homes. Conversely, job losses and foreclosures may lead individuals to move into another family member's existing residence. We'll have to wait and see how this trend affects the real estate landscape, if at all.

Have You Heard These Before? Little White Lies Sellers Commonly Tell Prospective Buyers

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Brunson) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:16:00 +0000

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)

Top 5 Most Affordable U.S. Real Estate Markets

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Brunson) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 20:41:00 +0000

The ability of a buyer to afford a home depends largely on his or her geographical location. Did you know that a median income of $64,000 per year is enough to enable buyers to purchase 70.8 percent of all homes sold in the country in the last three months (source: National Association of Home Builders and Wells Fargo)?

You may wonder where the most affordable areas actually are. Here's a list of the top 5 most affordable markets:

1. Indianapolis, IN
2. Detroit, MI
3. Dayton, OH
4. Youngstown, OH
5. Akron, OH

Is a move in your future? These markets proved to be the most affordable major markets determined by housing analysts.

(Source: CNNMoney.com, Les Christie, 2/17/1010)

5 Open House Motivaters

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Darany) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 22:06:00 +0000

By the time you obtain your real estate broker license, chances are, you've either held or attended your share of open houses. And let's face it - holding an open house can sometimes seem like a chore.

However, in today's market, your associates need to take advantage and maximize every marketing opportunity in order to get their clients' homes sold. Here are five motivaters to get your associates into open house mode:

1. Open houses have the potential to lead to a sale.

2. Home sellers like them. They like seeing their real estate professional working hard for them.

3. Visitor feedback is good for sellers, especially if your sellers are in need of a little additional convincing to make some home upgrades/changes.

4. Other real estate practitioners tour open houses and they sometimes produce sales.

5. Open houses engage people, including friends and neighbors who might bring in a buyer. These interactions can also lead to new, potential client relationships.

Source: Inman News. M. Umberger

Looking for Opportunity? Here are the Top 15 Places Baby Boomers Plan to Retire...

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Brunson) — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 18:38:00 +0000

According to a special report to air on CNBC on March 4, 2010, AARP lists the top places Baby Boomers plan to retire. Some of the locations may surprise you!

1. Loveland/Fort Collins, Colorado
2. Las Cruces, New Mexico
3. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
4. Portland, Oregon
5. Greenville, South Carolina
6. Sarasota, Florida
7. Ann Arbor, Michigan
8. Tucson, Arizona
9. Montpelier, Vermont
10. Honolulu, Hawaii
11. Santa Fe, New Mexico
12. Atlanta, Georgia
13. Charleston, South Carolina
14. Northampton, Massachusetts
15. San Diego, California

(Source: CNBC, Paul Toscano)

How to Properly Use GFE and HUD-1 Forms

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Darany) — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 23:40:00 +0000

Keep your real estate broker career on track and stay compliant with the new Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and HUD-1 rule - it went into effect on January 1, 2010.

This final rule, as stated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), seeks "To simplify and improve the process of obtaining mortgages and reduce consumer settlement costs."

Need a little guidance? Learn how to properly address and fill out the GFE and HUD-1 forms with this short, instructional video from REALTOR.org.

2009 NAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Darany) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 22:18:00 +0000

As a California real estate broker, you need to make sure that Realtors working under you are not only meeting, but surpassing client expectations. But, what do clients really want and have you properly trained your agents to identify these wants? Here's an easy starting place: The 2009 National Association of Realtors Profile (NAR) of Home Buyers and Sellers.

The comprehensive, annual report is full of useful facts and stats concerning what's going on in the real estate industry. The information was compiled from an eight-page questionnaire sent to approximately 120,038 consumers (7.9% response rate) who purchased homes between July 2008 and June 2009.

The questions reveal data on home buyer profiles, how buyers financed their home purchases and so much more. And as a broker, you may find the following data especially helpful when training your agents to tap into client wants and expectations.

What do home buyers want from a real estate agent?

46% - Assistance with locating the right home
16% - Help negotiating terms of a sale
13% - Help negotiating a price

What are the top skills desired in a real estate agent?

98% - Honesty and Integrity
95% - Knowledge of the purchase process
93% - Responsiveness
92% - Knowledge of the real estate market
84% - Negotiation skills
83% - Communication skills

As a seller, rank your most important needs and expectations of your real estate agent.

22% - Help price home competitively
21% - Help find a buyer for the home
19% - Help seller market home for potential buyers
19% - Help sell the home within a given time frame
10% - Help seller find ways to fix up their home to sell it for more
5% - Help with negotiations and dealing with buyers
3% - Help with paperwork/inspections/preparing for settlement
2% - Other

Interesting? You can get the entire report by visiting www.realtor.org.

What You Should Know About Real Estate Broker Career

noreply@blogger.com (Allied Blogger Admin) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:47:00 +0000

What is the role of a real estate broker? A real estate broker career can be a fulfilling experience for an individual and it's a career that demands both leadership and interpersonal skills. They are someone who knows the real estate market of a certain area, both inside and out. They are familiar with the estimate appraisal value of a certain property in a certain area at the given market conditions. However, the greatest distinguishing trait between a real estate agent and a real estate broker is that a broker can run their own real estate firm.

A broker should be able to look for a property that meets the specifications given by the purchaser at a given budget. Of course, it would mean that the broker needs to know how to negotiate a price until both parties involved in the transaction come to a mutual agreement. A real estate broker can work independently or hire a team of real estate salespeople to work in their firm. A broker working for a buyer means that he should help the buyer acquire a piece of property at the lowest price possible. While when a broker is working for a seller, he should be able to sell a property at the highest price possible. At such demands, the broker must have the ability to be flexible to each need.

What does it take to be a real estate broker? Before you can lead a career as a real estate broker, you must fulfill certain experience and educational requirements. First, you have to get a real estate license. The state must protect both the professional and the buyer from illegal transactions thus; they require those who want to practice the profession to get a license.

Getting a license as a real estate broker requires you to study for the exam. It is recommended for someone who'll be taking the exam to read real estate exam guides or take an online real estate broker course. Becoming a real estate broker is a mix of hard work, patience and determination. Mentorship from a knowledgeable real estate broker can provide added benefits to your new career. There are things that you don't learn in a classroom environment. Things such as obtaining networks and field know how could only be achieved with on an on the job training.

Obtaining a real estate license would allow you to broaden your horizons. Plus, you may discover that you want to shift your career path. For example, why not consider real estate appraisal? Staying on the job however does not mean that your learning must stop. Invest in yourself by attending extra classes. It would add to your credibility and value as a real estate broker.

Is Now a Good Time to Obtain Your California Real Estate Broker License?

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Darany) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:59:00 +0000

If you're a California Realtor, you probably know that in the past three months, pending home sales have shown a steady increase nationwide. Now's the perfect time to take action - get your California real estate broker license online, in your free time.

Need more incentive to obtain your California Real Estate Broker's license? Benefits of the first-time buyer tax credit and low interest rates continue to help boost buyer activity in a stabilizing housing market. This upward cycle in the housing market is an ideal time for new real estate broker licensees to enter the field and assist first-time buyers in realizing their goals of home ownership.

The Pending Home Sales Index, the leading indicator for the housing sector, rose 6.7 percent to 90.3 percent in April of 2009 from a reading of 84.6 percent the previous month, and is 3.2 percent above April 2008 when it was 87.5 percent. NAR's Housing Affordability Index is in record territory, showing a rise to 174.8 in April from 171.9 in March. This is excellent news for the real estate industry.

"Some states are offering bridge loans that allow first-time buyers to use the tax credit for down payment and closing costs," said NAR President Charles McMillan, who recently sited the fact that there are also numerous assistance programs for buyers across the nation that give more options to potential buyers looking to purchase homes. "There are many other local government and nonprofit programs available to buyers, depending on location."

The facts are in and the real estate market is progressing. Prepare for the market upswing and train for your California real estate broker license now. Your leadership is needed in an industry that's ready for greater accountability.

How to Start Your Real Estate Broker Career

noreply@blogger.com (Allied Blogger Admin) — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:24:00 +0000

Are you self confident and goal oriented? Do you like the idea of leading others? A career as a real estate broker might be an ideal fit for a new career. You can take the first step with comprehensive broker courses. Once you become a licensed real estate salesperson, you can easily move forward and get your broker’s license – it’s easy to make a smooth transition into a broker career!

Choose to advance your career by becoming a California real estate broker. You will get the skills and credentials to run your own real estate office and oversee a team of real estate salespeople. In any type of market, real estate brokers are needed to assist with the sales process – from regular sales to foreclosures.

What’s the difference between a real estate salesperson and a broker? A salesperson and broker perform many of the same tasks, but as a broker, you are authorized to open and run a real estate agency. This means that you have the authority to start your own independent office and hire real estate salespeople. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the business – from managing finances to marketing your organization.

There are many benefits of starting a California broker career – from taking your real estate career to the next level to being your own boss. Here are a few advantages of becoming a real estate broker:

Advance your real estate career

Assume a management role

Lead other people

Gain valuable work experience

Succeed in a rewarding profession

Experience high income potential
As a California real estate broker, you will negotiate agreements to sell, exchange, purchase, rent or lease interests in real property for a fee or commission. You will be responsible for accepting and escrowing all funds, such as a deposit placed on the purchase of a home, and for finalizing any transaction. You will be required to supervise all transactions conducted by a salesperson.
Career Outlook: Positive Growth Expected in the Next Decade!

It is the perfect time to start your broker career – you can prepare today for opportunities on the horizon. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the real estate industry offers nothing but opportunities for your career:

Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow 11 percent during the 2006-16 projection decade

In 2006, real estate brokers and sales agents held about 564,000 jobs; real estate sales agents held approximately 77 percent of these jobs

About 61 percent of real estate brokers and sales agents were self-employed

Get the skills to oversee and run your own real estate office. You can also pursue additional opportunities such as: employment within national franchises, banks, lenders, as well as government agencies.

There has never been a better time to get your broker license and enter the real estate market. Be ready for all opportunities – a California real estate broker career provides the path to an exciting future. Click here to learn more about Real Estate License.

CA Real Estate Broker License: The Next Step in Your Career

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 20:51:00 +0000

Are you self confident and goal oriented? Do you like the idea of leading others? If so, a career as a California real estate broker might be the right fit for you.

Advance your real estate career by becoming a broker. Enroll in a comprehensive broker training program and get the skills and credentials to run your own real estate office. Additional opportunities include: employment within national franchises, banks, lenders, as well as government agencies.

What's the difference between a real estate salesperson and a broker? A salesperson and broker perform many of the same tasks, but as a broker, you are authorized to open and run a real estate agency. This means that you have the authority to start your own independent office and hire real estate salespeople. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the business.

The Benefits of a Broker License

- Advance your real estate career
- Assume a management role
- Lead other people
- Gain valuable work experience
- Succeed in a rewarding and lucrative profession

Get the education and experience you need to move your career forward. If you are ready for the next challenge, enroll in a convenient online California real estate broker course today.

Allied Real Estate School, www.brokerlicense.com

California Community Tops Realtor.com Consumer Searches in July

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 19:16:00 +0000

Attention California real estate agents - check this out. Realtor.com reported a 29% month-over-month increase in July website traffic. In fact, various U.S. cities experienced significant year-over-year percentage increases in July consumer searches, with California's Stockton-Lodi community topping the list with a 140.9% increase.

Of the top ten cities with the greatest July year-over-year search increases, six were in California! Here's a look at the top ten cities based on year-over-year July search increases:

Metro Area

1. Stockton-Lodi, CA - 140.9%
2. Las Vegas, NV - 93.9%
3. Riverside-San Bernardino, CA - 86.3%
4. Oakland, CA - 73.6%
5. San Jose, CA - 71.4%
6. Fort Myers-Cape Coral, FL - 69.5%
7. Naples, FL - 66.2%
8. Sacramento, CA - 65.0%
9. Orange County, CA - 62.8%
10. Miami, Fl - 56.7%

So what does this mean? Homebuyers are taking action and California is on their most wanted list. Prepare for the next market upswing by putting your leadership skills to good use - get your California real estate broker license now. Your expertise will encourage other real estate professionals to facilitate the 2008 Housing Stimulus Bill by converting potential buyers into homeowners. Why not take your real estate career to a higher level? Enjoy greater income stability, reinvigorate yourself with the new challenges you crave and help push California into a brighter real estate market phase.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com

Orange County Homes Sales Up 17% in July

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 17:30:00 +0000

In Orange County, California, real estate brokers have a reason to smile. July home sales in Orange County rose 17 percent compared to one year ago.
According to DataQuick, July's home sales included 2,799 new homes, condos and existing single family residences. This is good news, especially since the last time Orange County home sales exceeded the 2007 pace was September of 2005.

DataQuick also reported a sales increase in 49 of Orange County's 83 zip codes. Sales are up 215 percent alone in south Santa Ana's 92707, better known to some as South Coast Metro.

The rise in home sales may be attributed to the drop in home prices and the $7,500 first time homebuyer tax credit included in Bush's new housing bill.

As more buyers enter the market, the demand for real estate professionals will increase. And now is the perfect time to enhance your real estate career by getting your real estate broker license. Enroll in an online broker license course, expand your expertise in your free time and play a vital role in turing homeownership dreams into reality.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Real Estate School, www.brokerlicense.com

U.S. Attracts International Real Estate Buyers

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 23:15:00 +0000

With a softer dollar and lower home prices, the United States is drawing international buyers in a big way. According to the 2008 NAR Profile of International Home Buying Activity, between 150,000 and 190,000 homes were sold to international buyers between May 2007 and May 2008. Here are some highlights from NAR's report:

- International buyers purchased properties in every U.S. state

- States most popular with international buyers: Florida, California and Texas

- Four in 10 international buyers paid for their home in cash

- Over 14% of properties sold to international buyers sold in excess of $750,000

- Canadian buyers doubled from 11% in 2007 to 23.05% in 2008

- Of the realtors surveyed by NAR, 26% served international clients in the past year

What does this mean for U.S real estate agents? If you haven't already, broaden your horizons and start thinking globally, not just locally. If your farm isn't providing the business it used to, why not try something new? Use the Internet to start networking and marketing to this new stream of eager buyers. You just might find yourself a new, comfortable niche.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com

Bush Signs Massive Housing Bill

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 15:22:00 +0000

On July 30, 2008, Bush signed the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008 to help stabilize financial markets. This measure is regarded as the most significant housing legislation in decades.

The bill may provide mortgage relief to overextended homeowners, offer first-time homebuyers with tax credits up to $7,500, plus low income housing tax credits will make rental housing more affordable.

So, what does this all mean?

Mortgage relief is a positive step towards fewer foreclosures. With a decreased number of homes on the market and an increased demand from buyers with tax credits, the real estate market is on the upswing.

According to Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, "this legislation will help strengthen the housing market and create jobs."

As more buyers enter the market, the demand for real estate professionals, brokers, appraisers and home inspectors will increase. And now is the perfect time to prepare for a real estate career. Trained real estate professionals will play an important role in facilitating the housing bill, but turning homeownership dreams into reality will be the most fulfilling part of this career choice.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Real Estate School, www.brokerlicense.com

$58 CA Real Estate Broker License Course

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 16:32:00 +0000

Need incentive to get your California real estate broker license? From July 28 through August 1, Allied Real Estate School is offering broker licensing courses for only $58 - books included! Plus, you can take the courses online. Pursue your broker career when it's most convenient for you! Why wait? Call 888-751-2286 to enroll today!

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Real Estate School, www.brokerlicense.com

Reach More Buyers with Bulk Data Feeds

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 17:31:00 +0000

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

4 Ways Agents Waste Time

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 16:58:00 +0000

If you're a manager with a real estate broker license, keeping your agents motivated in a changing market can be challenging. Help them beat market challenges by avoiding these time-wasting traps.

Fickle buyers

Time is precious. So if your agents are spending hours upon hours with one fickle client, make sure they have a Buyer-Broker agreement in place. At the same time, advise your agents to set a limit on the amount of time they spend on a hopelessly, fickle client. That way, they don't miss out on more fruitful leads.

Stubborn sellers

If your agent recommends staging or suggests a competitive listing price, their clients should consider their advice. If their seller refuses, your agent will waste time convincing potential buyers to overlook the problems. Help your agents overcome objections. Coach them to ask questions during the listing presentation so they can better gage a client's stance.

Ineffective advertising or marketing

Advertising and marketing is expensive. Do your agents monitor their efforts and measure how many leads come in, if any? If their advertising and/or marketing plans don't at least pay for themselves, advise them to try something different. Help them by hosting marketing workshops and ask your agents to share successful strategies at your office meetings.

Negative naysayers

There's no mistaking it - negative people kill morale. Maybe the market is more challenging than in recent years, but consider periods like the 1980's or early 1990's. Agents still made a living and persevered onto the next market phase and so can your agents. Coach them to focus on the positive and to brainstorm solutions to challenges with other positive-minded peers.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com

Does Your Advertising Discriminate?

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 22:06:00 +0000

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,

Is an Online Real Estate School for You?

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 21:42:00 +0000

Want to obtain your real estate broker license? Forget traffic, hours in a crowded classroom and expensive trips to the pump - online real estate schools are the perfect fit for busy, career-minded agents.

Online Real Estate School Perks:

Train While Maintaining Your Career
An online real estate school allows you to keep your life the same without having to make changes to accommodate your real estate broker license course. Focus on your current professional commitments while preparing for a new challenge - a successful real estate broker career.

Train When You Choose
You can enjoy flexible, self-paced real estate broker training. An online school allows you to customize your training and create a schedule that works best for your professional and family obligations. With an online real estate school, study when you have time and control how much you want to learn. You are in charge!

Train Where You Choose
You can complete your real estate broker training from wherever you choose. An online education allows you to access your assignments and tests through the convenience of your computer. Study and complete your online real estate broker training from home, your office or even a favorite coffee shop without the hassle of traveling to a classroom across town.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,www.brokerlicense.com

5 Tips for Improving Your Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Thu, 29 May 2008 21:25:00 +0000

Photography isn't a required real estate broker license course. Yet, it's a skill every real estate broker license holder should master.

Why? Buyers are Internet savvy and you need to grab their attention with an attractive presentation of sharp photos. Here are five photo taking tips to consider before your next home shoot:

1) Time your picture perfectly. The best time to capture an exterior shot is during the middle of the day when the sun is bright and the sky is blue. For interior shots, turn on the lights and use a flash so the photos don't look too dark.

2) Take a variety of quality photos. Buyers want to see more than one or two photos. So include a variety of photos that highlight the home's best features. Consider a professional staging service if the home doesn't photograph well.

3) Don't photograph unnecessary clutter. Remove clutter before taking photos of a home. In the kitchen, clear counters of extra appliances, put away dishes and remove mismatched magnets from the fridge. Throughout the interior, put away toys, make the beds, place fresh towels in the bathrooms and make sure laundry is out of sight.

4) Use your camera wisely. If your photos are poor quality, unimpressed buyers are likely to click on to the next property. Get clear shots by using a higher resolution. High resolution photos are essential for quality print, including flyers, postcards, magazines and newspapers. The photos can always be decreased for use on the web.

5) Take a photography class. Not comfortable with your photography skills? Improve them, and your real estate broker career, by taking a photography class at a local community college, community center or camera shop.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,Broker License School

Help Your Agents Overcome Objections

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Thu, 22 May 2008 22:11:00 +0000

Put your real estate broker license knowledge to work! Help your agents overcome tough client objections at your next office meeting.

Successful real estate agents are pros at overcoming client objections, but more than likely, they weren't always so savvy about it. No matter what level your agents are at, getting them to share their experiences and tactics will benefit everyone on your team.

Start your objection handling training with this simple exercise:

1. On separate sheets of paper, ask your agents to write down the toughest client objection they struggle to overcome.

2. Collect each paper and see which objections are most common.

3. Pick one of the objections and ask two of your agents to role play the situation as client and agent.

This exercise is a fun, interactive training tool that allows your agents to observe their peers in action, while using their own best tactics in situations that everyone can identify with. And don't just stop with one objection, role play with other common objections that your team seems to struggle with. They will learn new skills for combating future objections and possibly eliminate a barrier to their own success.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools, www.brokerlicense.com

Protect Your Clients' Personal Data

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Fri, 16 May 2008 16:55:00 +0000

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

Prepare for Your Broker License Exam

noreply@blogger.com (Danielle Macklin) — Wed, 14 May 2008 18:52:00 +0000

Are you ready to get your real estate broker license? Pass your state exam and begin your real estate broker career quickly by preparing with effective broker license exam prep tools.

Not all exam prep tools are equal. When choosing to advance your real estate career, look for comprehensive prep tools that prepare you to pass your broker exam the first time. Here's what to look for:

DVDs

It's the perfect addition to an online or home study course. Just sit back in the comfort of your home and enjoy instant instruction on key broker principles.

Workbook

Your workbook should summarize all main key points and include comprehensive review exercises that help you retain each key point.

Practice Questions and Exams

Your broker exam prep kit must have a variety of practice questions and exams that closely mirror the real broker state exam. This is powerful and smart way to prepare.

Math Emphasis

You can bet the broker state exam will have a math emphasis, so look for prep kits that help you sharpen forgotten math skills.

Professional Instruction

Don't just memorize definitions, learn real broker skills from professionals who've been there. Look for materials and DVDs that include the instruction of an accomplished individual in the broker industry.

With the right broker exam prep tools, you can your state exam with greater confidence and move on to the next exciting phase of your real estate career.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools,www.brokerlicense.com