Real Estate Education is the Key to Making a Smart Home Purchase

With credit starting to flow again, many families with reasonable down payments are receiving the go-ahead to proceed with the home buying process. And with home buyer incentives more attractive than ever, there's no time like the present to obtain your real estate license and educate buyers on how to make a successful home purchase.

Differentiate yourself from the competition - don't just help your buyers select a home. Educate them with these smart, "tried and true" principles so they can enjoy the long-term rewards of homeownership:

1. Borrow within your means. Just because your buyers receive lender approval for a specific mortgage amount doesn't necessarily mean the monthly payments will fit their budget. The old-school tradition - a "safe" home mortgage is no more than three times a buyer's annual family income - is one that certainly should be reinstated.

2. Understand local markets. Don't rely on national trends alone - Understand the housing market in the specific area where your client wants to live. Factors to pay attention to include:

-Foreclosure statistics
-Price movements
-Local job market strength
-Lack/abundance of newly built homes
-Prices of comparable sales in the neighborhood
-Average length of time a home is listed before it sells

3. Beware of price warning signs in the next cycle. Continuous price run-ups should raise a big red flag. From 2000 to 2005, U.S. housing prices rose by an average of 53%. Many housing markets experienced an increase that was even greater, including Nevada at 94%, Florida at 90% and California at 109%.

4. Buy for the long term. Now is not the ideal time to make a quick profit in the housing market. Since it is unclear when prices will bounce back, advise your clients to stay put for the long haul when buying this year.

5. Save smart for a down payment. While it's true that tying up all of your equity in a mortgage can deplete your emergency cash cushion, the market is starting to stabilize and there are definite advantages of a big down payment. Putting down between 15-20% will ultimately be beneficial in the form of higher equity, lower payments, better interest rates and more readily accessible financing.

These simple guidelines can help your clients make smarter home buying decisions. Plus, many economists agree - there is light at the end of the tunnel. For example, Harvy Rosenblum, executive vice president and director of research for the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, believes our economy will show marked improvement in the coming year and should be back on track by 2011.

It's time to think big. Choose to work within the confines of a cubicle, or become your own boss, see potential beyond media hype and pursue the rewarding real estate career challenges you know you can handle. Get your real estate license online in your free time and tap into this market. You can turn the home ownership dreams of qualified buyers into reality and be prepared to take on the next market upswing.

Labels: become a real estate agent, California real estate license, home buying, real estate career, real estate education, real estate training

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A Real Estate Career is Still a Good Choice

Do you enjoy working with others? Do you like to set your own schedule? Do you want a career with high income potential? Do you like to interact with a lot of different people? Then a real estate career might be an ideal fit for you. With a real estate license, you can give up the full-time desk job for an exciting career that offers variety and reward.

Career Outlook

You might wonder if this is a good time to become a real estate salesperson. It actually is - the real estate market is expected to start making a recover in late 2010. Although the real estate market is currently in a downturn, the Federal Reserve predicts that the economic crisis will end by late 2009 and 2010 will be a year of recovery. With the real estate market positioned for an upswing, you can prepare for a career as a real estate agent now and be ready for the opportunities ahead.

According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow 11 percent during the 2006-16 decade. The increasing housing needs of a growing population and stabilizing economy will result in average employment growth. The secondary housing market will remain strong; more affordable home prices will attract first-time buyers - resulting in opportunity for you!

How to Get Started

Requirements vary from state to state, but typical steps include:

Step 1: Enroll in an accredited real estate salesperson school
Step 2: Prepare for the real estate license exam
Step 3: Pass the state real estate license examination
Step 4: Work in a real estate office under the supervision of a licensed broker

It only takes a few months to prepare for a new career as a real estate salesperson. It's fast, easy and affordable to complete your real estate training online! You can even take the next step and become a licensed broker. Best of all, you can play a key role in helping people realize their dreams.

About the Career

Buying a home is one of the largest financial investments individuals make in their lives. They need the assistance of qualified salespeople to help them make informed decisions. As a real estate salesperson, you will assist sellers in marketing their property; assist buyers in purchasing suitable property; and act as an intermediary between buyers and sellers.

Start a career where no two days are the same - obtain listings, determine sales prices, show properties, conduct open houses, assist with financing and oversee home inspections all in a day's work.

It's a flexible career that fits with your life. Set your own hours, work outside of a traditional office setting and experience high-income potential. You will interact with many different people and be part of a real estate team. There has never been a better time to get your real estate license. Make the decision to start a flexible, convenient and lucrative real estate career today.

Labels: become a real estate salesperson, Bureau of Labor Statistics, real estate brokers, real estate career, sales agents

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Customer Service: The Backbone of Your California Real Estate Career

Good customer service can be the difference between a successful California real estate career and an average California real estate career. Providing good customer service can get you noticed, and make clients want to use you instead of a competitor. With so much at stake in the real estate process, you should make it a priority to always provide the highest-quality customer support.

Nobody wants to work with a California real estate salesperson that is unhelpful, unreachable or even unwilling to do what it takes to get the sale complete - especially when that sales agent is receiving a large commission! Providing quality customer service can take your California real estate career to the next level -enabling you to retain clients, receive positive word of mouth and have an overall solid reputation.

As a California real estate agent, you can follow six steps to ensure that your clients have a positive experience:

1) Answer your phone - Nothing is more important than ensuring that your clients reach a live person. Make yourself available! If you have to let a phone call go to your voice mail, be sure to call the client back in a timely manner. If you are out in the field, make sure you take your cellular phone so you are reachable or have the ability to return calls as soon as you are available.

2) Don't make promises unless you will keep them - Reliability is a key factor in customer service. Clients want to believe what they're told. Keep their trust and follow through on what you promise. Real estate is a large investment; it is your job as a California real estate salesperson to be up-front with your clients.

3) Listen to your customers - It is important to really listen to your clients. Find out what their California real estate needs are and tailor your services to meet their needs. Give them the courtesy of your undivided attention.

4) Deal with problems - You should try to resolve any problems that arise - quickly and efficiently. If you can address the problem effectively and provide a satisfactory solution, you will have another happy client on your hands.

5) Be helpful - Customers want assistance from someone that is knowledgeable and willing to help - at every stage of the real estate process. Put your best foot forward and lend a helping hand. Sometimes going above and beyond your duty can be the right thing to do; i.e. helping your clients find a suitable lender or hand-delivering documents to their house.

6) Take the extra step - By going the extra mile, you will make a lasting impression. Don't worry about the immediate profit. If your clients are happy with your real estate services, they will be back.

Regardless of whether your clients buy or not, you should treat them as if they were the most important. Clients that feel valued and appreciated will be more likely to return. Remember, it only takes a few unhappy customers to cast a negative light on a business. If you consistently follow these rules, you will become known for good customer service - something that is essential in real estate. You worked so hard to get your California real estate license - make the most of it by being providing high-quality service every step of the way.

Labels: California real estate, California real estate career, California real estate salesperson, real estate career

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Top 5 Ways a Blog Can Enhance Your Real Estate Career

1. Get in front of potential clients: People today require information and they look to the Internet to do their research. By creating an effective blog, you can be a valuable resource to current and potential clients and give your real estate career an advantage.

2. Stay up-to-date with the latest technology: In today's real estate market, it is vital that you are knowledgeable with current technology. As people use interactive real estate websites to view MLS listings, you can benefit clients with your ability to post relevant and useful information. Today, there are blogs for every topic -- make sure you have one too!

3. Keep in touch with the industry: This is the perfect way to stay on top of what's going on in the real estate industry. Create blog posts that cover different and timely information about real estate. It will benefit your clients, as well as your own career. You will always know what is currently happening in the world of real estate.

4. Become a real estate expert: A well-written blog can set you apart from your competition. Cover relevant topics (buying/selling tips, how to get a real estate license, real estate education requirements) and assert yourself as an expert on the real estate field. Once you are established, people will seek out your blog for information.

5. Increase your exposure: You can help your blog rank high on the most popular search engines by adding relevant links, inserting keywords and partnering with other websites. By showing up on the first or second page of a search engine, you can increase the amount of traffic viewing your blog -- and seeking your real estate services, which is the ultimate goal.

Labels: real estate career, real estate expert, real estates service

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Why Get Your Real Estate License Education Online?

Deciding to get your real estate license is an important choice. You can choose to attend a live school for your real estate education, or you can opt to take your classes online. Today, more and more people are enrolling in an accredited online real estate school. Why is this a good choice? What are the benefits of learning real estate classes online? Not all education is the same, but online real estate classes can provide you with benefits, including the opportunity to:

- Keep your current job: When you enroll in an online real estate school, you don't have to quit your job. You can maintain your professional responsibilities while getting the additional education you need.

- Learn when you have time: Forget having to adhere to a set schedule. You can focus on your real estate studies when you have some spare time. You simply have to turn on your computer, log in and complete your real estate classes.

- Set the pace of your education: Sometimes in a classroom setting, you may find that you want to learn more quickly or at a slower pace. The best thing about online real estate courses is that you can set the pace that works best for you.

- Learn where you choose: Do you have spare time at the office? Do you have a laptop that can travel with you? You can complete your real estate assignments and take your quizzes in the location that works best for you. And you don't have to travel to a classroom!

- Get your real estate license faster: The state real estate agencies have a minimum amount of time you have to spend on your course before you can take the final exam. With online learning, you can complete your real estate education within the shortest amount of time, without having to go to regularly scheduled classes that might span a few weeks or months.

- Experience less distractions: You can focus 100% on your studies. When you take real estate classes online, you are setting aside time that is dedicated to your real estate education. You are more likely to study hard and have greater focus than being in a classroom with other people.

- Be totally in charge: Imagine having an educational experience where you call the shots. Whether you study day or night, at the office or at home, you manage your online real estate classes.

Make the best choice for your real estate career. An online real estate school offers many benefits that a live school does not. In addition, you can take advantage of personalized student support, the industry's best course materials and the school's high pass rate to reach your real estate career goals. Do your research and get started -- your career as a real estate salesperson is within reach.

Labels: article, Online Real Estate School, real esate license, real estate career

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Create a Professional Image in Your Real Estate Career

Gain an advantage in your real estate career by creating a professional image with a state-of-the-art website. It can't just be any website; you need a website that is going to keep up with the times -- with the tools and features that will keep the user's interest. You've worked hard to get your real estate license. Maintain your career with a site that draws clients in and keeps them coming back.


You don't need to know how to design a website to have a great website. There is software available that does the legwork for you. This will ensure that you have an effective site and benefit from the services that these products have to offer. Forget spending thousands of dollars on a web designer; you can get a functional website at a fraction of the cost.

It is quick and easy to create a professional image with the right tools at your disposal. You can develop a site that is informative, interactive and user-friendly, all by yourself! Make real estate website design work for you by adding the following features:

Original themes -- Choose a theme that fits your image. If you work in Southern California, you might to include a view of the coastline and pictures of properties along the beach. If you are in a city, you can showcase some metro properties. It's up to you to determine the look and feel of your site. You can even consider adding a holiday theme throughout the year.

Interactive graphics -- It's all about technology these days! Make your website current with Flash technology and animation software. Add an engaging introduction that gives the user a positive first impression when he or she pulls up your site. Show that you are up to date with the latest trends and emphasize your real estate strengths. Include quick photos of some of your best properties, your company logo or a list of your awards.

Pre-written text -- You can have access to professional text that has been pre-written and tested for effectiveness. Design your site with text that presents you as an industry expert. You can add your own content too. Make a little tweak here and there to create the message you want for your website. You can add, delete, copy, and paste.

Tools -- Website users like to visit sites that include everything in one place. You can pack your site full of useful tools, making it a leading real estate resource. Consider adding mortgage calculators, Google maps, MLS properties, podcasts, and more.

Lead generation -- In addition to being a valuable resource for your clients, you want your website to provide you with new leads. One idea is to include industry reports that provide buyers and sellers with useful information. The user can select the information the want to view, while you capture the e-mail address. This will enable you to follow up on new business.

It doesn't take a web genius to create an effective website. You can have a state-of-the-art site with the information and resources users will love. Project the professional image you've always wanted as a licensed real estate professional. Take the necessary steps to set yourself apart from the competition and create a lasting real estate career.

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How to Make Your Real Estate Career Survive

The real estate market is cyclical -- it is going to have its ups and downs. It's how you deal with the downturns that will determine your success as a licensed real estate salesperson. Many people think that becoming a real estate agent means fast cash. As the market changes -- homes stay on the market longer and interest rates rise -- many of the agents with this mentality will get impatient and leave real estate all together. Good agents, or agents that know the tricks of the trade, will survive in this ever-changing field and benefit in the long run. Here how:

1. Market, market, market -- place advertisements in local newspapers, create a mailer, or write an article for a real estate magazine.
2. Call past clients -- see if they are planning to move or know someone looking to buy or sell.
3. Provide incentives to potential customers -- offer to pay for a home inspection out of your own pocket, or take a smaller commission on a sale.
4. Create a new website or make additions to your current site -- add podcasts, maps, MLS listings, etc.
5. Network in neighborhoods within your community -- introduce yourself and hand out business cards to homeowners.
6. Set up a booth at community events -- offer free advice to potential buyers and sellers.
7. Attend first-time homebuyer seminars -- get your name and face in front of new homebuyers.
8. Complete your continuing education units (CEUs) for the year -- keep yourself busy and stay up to date with recent laws and changes.
9. Advance your career by getting your broker's license.

Labels: Accredited Real Estate School, real estate broker, real estate career, Real Estate School

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How to Succeed as a Real Estate Salesperson

It seems that everyone has considered a career in real estate at one time or another. If you pursued this career, are you still licensed? Have you achieved the success you wanted? Many people enter this field as a licensed real estate salesperson and expect success to just happen. To have a long-term career, you need to work hard and be proactive. There are some tips you can follow to succeed in your real estate career:

Create a Solid Business Plan - As a real estate salesperson, you are essentially in business for yourself. You might work in a brokerage, but it is up to you to generate new business, market your services and set a plan in motion. Determine what your goals are, how you plan to get there and the resources you need to make it happen.

Work with a Strong Team of People - To close a transaction, you need the assistance of a team of people (buyer's agent, listing agent, lender, inspector, appraiser, etc.). You will be in a position to refer your clients to these people. Make sure that they are reliable, accurate and fair. If you make the buying process smooth for your clients, they will be more likely to use you again and refer your services to other people.

Use the Right Tools - It is worth every penny to invest in your career. In addition to licensing fees, you'll want to build a website, generate leads, and more. Do everything you can to project a professional image. These tools are going to cost you some money - make sure you set a budget and stick to it. While you want the right tools, you don't want to go broke trying to get them. A good rule of thumb is to have three months worth of savings available to cover your costs.

Marketing, Marketing, Marketing - Most brokerages will provide you with some inbound leads. However, you need to do some additional work of your own to get your name out. Don't be passive - your extra efforts can give you the advantage you need. Spending only in newspapers, magazines, etc. can be somewhat effective. However, seasoned real estate professionals will tell you that referral business is marketing that really works.

Choose a Brokerage that Fits Your Needs - This requires some research. Don't just choose the one that offers you the first job. There are many reasons that go into selecting a brokerage. While pay, location and reputation are important, you should also make sure that the brokerage is willing to work for you. Make sure the broker is willing to support you in your new career and provide you with the encouragement you need. Determine if there is a training program, incoming leads, low turnover etc. A supportive atmosphere can go a long way in helping you build a solid career.

It takes time, energy and effort to develop a real estate career. To be a successful real estate salesperson, you need to take an active role in your career. If you follow the above tips, you will have a greater chance to succeed in this exciting profession. Proper preparation and action can result in a long-term, rewarding career. Make your real estate license work for you!

Labels: Online Real Estate School, real estate career

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Succeed With Essential Real Estate Tools

It takes dedication and perseverance for real estate agents to experience success in their field. The secret to this success is having the right tools of the trade. This can set them apart from the competition and allow them to present themselves in a professional and effective manner.

Many people get their real estate license, but don't take the next step in their career. They fail to equip themselves with the tools that will help them succeed. They've dedicated valuable time and money to become an agent. If they want to progress in their career and experience a high level of success, they need to get the resources to move to the next stage of their career.

The truth is there are things they can do to drive their real estate career. Agents are not bystanders when it comes to their professional career; they are in the driver's seat. What can they do to succeed? They can use the web as an effective real estate tool. The real estate market is shifting away from traditional selling methods to Internet-based real estate sales. To stay effective in today's market, agents need to employ current marketing trends.

Professional Website

The first step real estate agents should take is to set up an effective website. Having a professional web image is vital to any successful career. Even though they work in a real estate office with a team of co-workers, they need to set up their own storefront on the web. This serves as an invaluable resource for their clients by providing them with useful and effective information.

Features: The site should include important tools that clients need in their search for a new home. Gone are the days of passive homebuyers. Today, people want to be involved. With the proliferation of the Internet, they expect to have the information they need at their fingertips. An agent's site should include aerial maps, listings, podcasting, and multimedia listing pages. These innovative features can give a real estate agent an edge in the marketplace.

User-friendly: High-tech sites don't have to be difficult to use. They should be designed to be easy for any individual to navigate. Clients want to get information in a fast and easy manner. The site should include prominent menu prompts and buttons to make it simple to move from page to page.

Valuable: The main goal of the website should be to provide the homebuyer with a sense of value. Clients should walk away from the experience feeling informed and satisfied with the overall process. An effective website can make them feel like they're in the loop, or in control of their homebuying experience. This can provide a real estate agent with an advantage. Clients will be more likely to come back or refer other people to that agent.

There are companies that will assist real estate agents with their website needs. Agents can pay to have someone create their site, or develop the site themselves through the use of easy-to-use software.

Lead Generation

An effective website alone will not get real estate agents enough business to sustain a long-term career. They need to take the necessary steps to facilitate lead generation. Lead generation is an effective way to get actual real estate leads. There are only so many referrals that agents can get from friends, relatives and former clients.

Lead generation provides them with an effective way to get business from the Internet. They can turn web visitors into real clients. The success of this relatively new concept is dependent on successful web marketing strategies that include:

Linking to other websites: This is the perfect opportunity for agents to increase exposure to their sites. It involves putting a link to their homepage on an affiliate website. This link enables people to access the agent's site from another source.

Maximizing search engines: There are different techniques real estate agents can use to increase traffic to their website. First, they can place keywords in their text to help generate a higher ranking on the major search engine sites. Second, they can arrange to bid for a sponsored website listing, which involves an advertisement that appears at or near the top of a major search engine results page.

Using lead generation software: This is an effective way to get qualified real estate prospects. With the use of the Internet, the majority of leads can be generated through a computer. Agents can use sophisticated software to attract prospects and capture their contact information through the use of e-mail campaigns, drip e-mail marketing, contact managers, and more. (Oftentimes, web development companies or software programs will include these features when designing a new site.)

The Internet has changed the way that homes are sold. Today, clients are increasingly more hands-on in the real estate process. Agents can embrace this change by tailoring their practices to meet the growing need for information and two-way communication. By providing clients with what they want and expect from the marketplace, real estate agents can secure a firm place in an ever-changing field.

The web can open the door to unlimited marketing opportunity for real estate professionals. The possibilities are not limited to the strategies listed above. Real estate agents should develop their own marketing plan, or way of effectively selling their services. By incorporating simple techniques, they can set themselves apart from the competition and develop a long-term career.

Labels: real estate agents, real estate career, real estate license

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