Real Estate News And Views

Polish Your Real Estate Career Speech

2009-10-12T11:04:00.000-07:00

USA Today business columnist Rhonda Abrams urges real estate practitioners to work on honing their 30-second answer to this important question: "What do you do?"

It seems like an easy question for a real estate professional to answer, but
simply saying, "I sell real estate" doesn't distinguish you from the thousands of other practitioners out there, Abrams says. Instead, give listeners a reason to remember you: "I sell homes in the North Carolina area, specializing in first-time buyers."

Get someone to videotape you answering this key question until you've polished your intro into a can't-miss conversation starter that includes information about the core of your business, why acquaintances should do business with you, and what excites you about what you're doing, Abrams advises.

Source: USA Today, Rhonda Abrams (Oct. 9, 2009)

Buyers Are Cutting the Fluff, Architects say

2009-10-07T15:22:00.000-07:00

Home buyers are scaling back, according to a quarterly survey by the American Institute of Architects choosing energy-saving amenities over recreational ones.

Two-thirds of architects say their clients want better insulation, including double- and triple-glazed windows, water-saving devices, and solar panels. The most popular bonus room is a home office, with 46 percent of architects saying these rooms are gaining in popularity.

The architects identified a sharp decline in the demand for high-end kitchens and baths and said that there was also less interest in game and media rooms and in-law suites.

The AIA said residential billings, a leading indicator of activity, rose to 38 in the second quarter, up 20 points from the first quarter of 2009.

Source: Reuters News (10/06/2009)
Image Source: AIArchitect (Volume 18)

Pending Homes Sales Increase to 6.4 Percent

2009-10-06T11:43:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in pursuing a real estate career? Now might be the right time. According to an Associated Press news story on MSNBC.com, U.S. pending home sales have experienced seven consecutive months of gains - the highest since March 2007. Here are highlights from the story:

Construction spending rose in August. According to the release, this unexpected increase represents the biggest jump in housing activity in nearly 16years - a positive sign that the real estate market is recovering.

Sales and homebuilding influences are strong. A combination of the $8,000 tax credit, cheap foreclosures and low mortgage rates are powerful reasons to get off the fence and into the real estate market.

Growing support for extending the $8,000 tax credit. Over one dozen bills have been presented to Congress, pushing for an extension of the $8,000 first-time homebuyer tax credit.

In all but a few cities, home prices are slowly increasing. The slow, nationwide housing price increase is a reversal from a three-year descent. And, according to the release, bidding wars for discounted properties in hard-hit areas like Las Vegas and Phoenix are common.

NAR index of sales agreements - higher than expected. According to the National Association of Realtors, its index of sales agreements rose 6.4% from July to 103.8%, beating forecasts. It was the highest since March 2007 and 12% above a year ago. Economists surveyed by Thomson Reuters expected the index would rise to 98.6%.

Prepare for the Florida State Exam with Complimentary Flash Cards

2009-10-02T16:10:00.000-07:00

Flash cards are an ideal way to learn important real estate concepts. Reinforce what you need to know for the Florida state exam with handy cards that travel with you wherever you go!

For a limited time, you can receive a complimentary set of Florida Real Estate Flash Cards when you enroll in any Florida Real Estate Sales Associate course. That's a $30 value! You'll receive your real estate course, plus the tools to effectively prepare for the state exam.

Use the Florida Real Estate Flash Cards to commit key terms to memory. They are Florida-specific and contain 375 terms and definitions broken down into five categories: Legal, Finance, Practice, Closing, Appraisal & Economics. Call (800) 617-3513 to take advantage of this limited-time offer and get your complimentary Florida flash cards.

Reinforce Florida Real Estate Concepts with These Helpful Study Tips

We've included some study tips from Allied's 7 Secrets to Studying. When preparing for the Florida state exam, you'll benefit from incorporating these helpful tips into your study routine.

Tip #1 Use Study Aids to Your Advantage
Plan a review of each chapter as you go along, so that you don't have to review everything all at once right before the exam. Use these study aids for maximum results:

Flash cards are very good tools, particularly for memorization of important terms and definitions. Focus on the ones you're having most difficulty with - review them in random order until you feel confident that you know the information.
- Use flash cards to track your progress
- Know instantly which topics require extra review
- Use flash cards at home or on the go to instantly recognize terms and definitions

Practice tests can help you prepare for the actual exam. As you prepare for the FL state licensing exam, try to score 90% or better on the practice tests - mastering these practice tests can be an indication of how you'll do on the real thing.

Tip #2 Remember to Use Memorization Tools!What's the best way to recall important facts? Apply these associative memory techniques to remember the content from your flash cards and learn your Florida real estate concepts:

Acrostics
In real estate, when you want to remember property tax dates, use the acrostic "No Darn Fooling Around" (for November, December, February and April). See if you can make up creative acrostics for areas you need help remembering.

Acronyms
Acronyms are words formed from the first letters of a series of words you need to remember. In grade school when you had to remember the names of the Great Lakes, you probably used the word "homes" to remember all five lakes - Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior.

Rhymes
Making up a simple rhyme can be a very effective memorization tool. Remember, "I before e, except after c?"

Imaging Techniques
Use "linking" to recall a list or series of words by creating a visualization that contains all the words you need to recall.

Repetition
Reading and re-reading is helpful, but also saying things out loud, writing them down, inventing acronyms or using the linking technique can help you remember important terms and concepts.

With the complimentary flash cards that you may receive when you enroll in your Florida real estate course, you can use these study tips to assist with your state exam preparation. Take advantage of this limited-time offer and learn the terms you need to know, in the comfort of your home or on the go.

Does Florida Real Estate Offer the Best Bargains for Homebuyers?

2009-10-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

Opportunity to benefit from the Florida real estate market is looking a little sunnier - for buyers, for savvy Florida real estate agents and sellers who can find the silver lining. According to a report released by Zillow.com this month, of the 25 cities with the biggest median discounts in August, 14 of them were in the state of Florida.

The Florida city where sellers offered the most significant price reductions was in Vero Beach, where buyers negotiated prices down by 10.2%, a savings of $23,500. Other Florida hot spots were Naples at 7.8%, Daytona Beach at 7.5% and Sarasota at 8.2%.

According to Zillow Chief Economist Stan Humphries, "The fact that many Florida markets are still showing comparatively higher differences between the last listing price and final sale price suggests that inventory levels are still relatively high, keeping considerable downward pressure on prices and encouraging buyers to seek large discounts off the listing price."

Florida just might be the ultimate playground for serious home bargain hunters. And sellers shouldn't be dismayed. Although a property may sell far below the asking price, a great deal on a replacement home can balance it all out.

A combination of low interest rates, lower home prices and a wide inventory variety are encouraging all types of buyers to take action. So, how can buyers and sellers land the best deal and who will help them get it? Guidance from a trained Florida real estate professional is paramount, which is why now might be a strategic time to obtain a Florida real estate license from an online real estate school and benefit from this growing client market.

Need more incentive? Take a peek at a complimentary offer from Allied Real Estate School, check out the course and envision yourself in the Florida real estate agent role.

First Servicer Performance Report Encouraging to Those Ready to Obtain a Real Estate License

2009-09-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

Have you always wanted to get your real estate license? Now may be a good time. The real estate market continues to experience an increase in activity, and with the recent release of the first monthly Servicer Performance Report, the future of the real estate industry is looking brighter.

As an initiative of the current administration, the Servicer Performance Report is a monthly progress review the Making Home Affordable (MHA) loan modification program. The report also includes a plan of action that promotes the continued stabilization of our housing market.

MHA loan modification initiatives include:

- Additional protection for borrowers. The administration has asked program compliance agent Freddie Mac to create a "second look" process to review MHA modification applications that have been repeatedly declined.

- CEOs of participating servicers were asked to redouble their efforts to increase staffing, improve borrower response times and streamline the application process.

- Stricter real estate laws aimed at alleviating past mistakes, standards for smarter real estate transactions and greater accountability in the real estate profession.

In just a few short months, the MHA has made rapid progress. For example, servicers covering more than 85 percent of loans are making modifications under the program. To date, over 400,000 modification offers have been extended and more than 230,000 trial modifications are underway. At this pace, the program is on track to offer assistance to some 3 to 4 million homeowners over the next three years.

And here's more good news - pending listings are up for the fifth consecutive month and many first-time buyers who qualify for the $8,000 tax credit are taking advantage of the opportunity to own a home. The continued upswing in the real estate market is a positive indication that recovery is underway.

Curious about what training is needed to sell real estate? Start your research online and consider an accredited online real estate school. In a matter of months, your dedication could contribute to greater stabilization in your local real estate market.

Use Online Social Networking Sites to Market Your Real Estate Services

2009-08-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Once you get your real estate license, constant communication with potential clients is vital to your success. Direct mail campaigns and door knocking are all tried and true marketing tactics in the real estate industry, but today's consumers are Web savvy. You need a multi-faceted marketing approach that won't bust your budget. It's time to jump on the social networking bandwagon.

Are you ready to expand your real estate business? Consider utilizing social networking Web sites such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and ActiveRain as more opportunities to maintain your connection with clients. You can use these five basic rules to help you achieve the greatest benefit from these tools:

Get organized.
Use Facebook lists to group your contacts (colleagues, high school friends, neighbors, past clients, etc). Just click on the "Friends" link on the top of your profile page, and then click on "Make a New List" on the left side of the screen. This will make communication easier as you expand your network. Create similar groupings with your contacts on Twitter and other social sites.

Be a sleuth.
By signing up at TweetBeep.com, you will receive e-mail alerts when keywords related to you or your business appear in a Twitter message, or "tweet."

Be authentic.
When people visit your Web page, the first thing they will see is your profile. Be honest about who you are and what you do, and be sure to include details. For instance, calling yourself a "real estate expert" isn't nearly as revealing as "20 years of experience in the marketing and sale of residential property with a major national brokerage firm." Also, touch on your life outside of work, including photos if possible. Adding this human element to who you are is paramount to building relationships.

Be an observer.
Spend some time researching Facebook groups, fan pages and events related to your field. For instance, take note of how they communicate with their members and the amount of activity on discussion boards and wall posts.

Be a giver, not a taker.
Share information with your network without any expectation of getting something in return. You might post a link to an interesting article or video, and offer insightful comments on links posted by others. Be willing to take time to build and nurture relationships with people in your network. The more resources you present, the more trust you build and the more potential clients you will generate.

Seeking out new marketing tools and techniques should be a vital part of your ongoing real estate education. Understand the latest trends in your local area, market your benefits online to a mass audience and keep your real estate career on track.

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

2009-08-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

Do you need incentive to obtain your California real estate broker's license? Benefits of the first-time home buyer tax credit, increased pending home sales and low interest rates are a few of the factors that continue to help boost buyer activity in a stabilizing housing market.

"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 also noted the variety of nationwide home buyer assistance programs. "There are many other local government and nonprofit programs available to buyers, depending on location."

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.
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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 is ready for greater accountability. Click here to learn more about California broker license course.

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

2009-07-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

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.

Get your Real Estate License and Help Buyers Benefit from $8K Tax Credit

2009-06-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

Congress passed legislation that provides a tax credit of up to $8,000 for individuals purchasing their first home. Help spread the word - get your online real estate license and begin a rewarding career where you make a difference.

As a licensed real estate salesperson, here's what you need to know in order to help first time buyers take advantage of this exciting opportunity:

-Your client must purchase a home sometime between January 1, 2009 and December 1, 2009

-The buyer or his/her spouse may not have owned a residence for at least three years prior to buying the home

-The maximum amount of tax credit given to those who qualify is $8,000

-There are two main factors involved in determining the total for each buyer: the price of the home and the annual income of the purchaser

-While the credit will be equivalent to 10% of the purchase price of the home, up to $8,000, single buyers who make $75,000 or less, as well as married couples who earn up to $150,000, are eligible to receive the most credit

-If a buyer's income surpasses these limits, but does not exceed the maximum, they may still qualify. The credit amount decreases for single buyers who bring in between $75,000 and $95,000, and for buyers filing jointly who gross between $150,000 and $170,000 per year. (Those with incomes that exceed $95,000 for singles and $170,000 for couples are not eligible for the tax credit.)

-Buyers who occupy the home for a period of at least three years are not required to repay the tax credit and, since it is fully reimbursable, can get their credit returned to them in the form of a payment

With the recent announcement of the eagerly anticipated guidance from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), there is even more positive news for first-time buyers. FHA-approved lenders have been given the okay to begin the development of bridge-loan products which will make it feasible to use the benefits of the federal tax credit upfront. Home buyers can use these loans to help cover closing costs, buy down their interest rate, or put down more than the minimum 3.5 percent.

First time home buyers are often unaware that these programs exist. Obtain your real estate license, educate first time buyers and transform them from renters to proud home owners - a dream they may have never thought possible.

Jumpstart Your Career with Online Real Estate Broker Training

2009-05-14T16:11:00.000-07:00

Enrolling in courses at an online real estate broker school is one of the best career moves you can make. These days, despite the economy, having a job in real estate can be very rewarding -- especially for brokers. The income potential is solid; and you can even start your own agency!

In order to start a real estate broker career, you'll need the right education and training. There are online broker classes you can take, which enable you to study day or night. To receive the best real estate broker education possible, you should check the online school's credentials (look for national accreditation) and read testimonials from other students. Additionally, conduct research to determine what online real estate school helps students find jobs after successful completion of the course -- this can be an asset to your new broker career.

An online real estate broker school provides the following benefits:
- The ability to complete your broker training from the comfort of your home
- The ability to choose when and where you want to learn, and study at your own pace
- Access to quality broker license classes 24/7
- Assistance with preparing for the state exam
- Assistance with finding a job

Distance education courses are fast, convenient, and user friendly. They are also an inexpensive way to get all the training you need -- you save on gas, parking fees and babysitter costs. When you sign up for courses at an online real estate broker school, you take your education into your own hands. Learn at your own pace -- you can move at a regular or accelerated pace.

Getting your education through an online real estate broker school will provide you with many advantages -- before you know it, you'll be prepared to start your own agency. If you are skeptical about distance education, then set aside your worries -- online classes are the future of learning. A good online real estate broker school has great instructors that truly care about their students. They will work with you every single step of the way -- and help you reach your career goals.

Telling Clients to Boost Their Home's Curb Appeal is Great Advice from a Real Estate Broker

2009-04-16T16:25:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is true -- most buyers will judge a book by its cover. Even if a home is loaded with amenities and upgrades throughout the interior, a shoddy exterior can cost your clients a quick sale. They don't have to fret -- there are multiple things that can be done to boost their home's curb appeal. As their real estate broker, you are in a position to provide them with valuable advice.

First off, you should instruct your clients to hire a professional landscaper just before their home goes on the market. Have the landscaper prune any overhanging branches or overgrown shrubbery, mow the lawn and trim the edges. Have them add flowers to their front yard gardens or around walkways. These flowers will add beauty to their home's facade and give an inviting look to those buyers who are just "driving by."

If your clients have multiple cars in their driveway, it will make their front yard look overcrowded. During open houses, you should have them park their cars down the street or place them in the garage. An empty driveway will make the front of their home appear to have more space. Speaking of driveways - if their driveway is loaded with cracks, you should advise them to hire a driveway sealer to put a fresh black or white coat on. It's amazing the difference a newly sealed driveway will make to their home's exterior.

If they don't have money to paint or put new siding on your home then you should advise them to hire a power washer to spray the exterior of their home. This is very inexpensive and can literally wash the dirt away. It is also a good idea to have the power washers clean any sidewalks, porches or decks.

As a real estate broker, you know that the goal in creating curb appeal is piquing the buyer's interest enough to get them to set up an appointment to view the interior. Exterior maintenance should not be costly and the steps mentioned above are economical and effective. So if you are helping your clients sell their home and the outside leaves a little to be desired, do yourself a favor and help them boost their home's curb appeal. Your broker training and experience puts you in a position to make a difference.

Successful Real Estate Brokers Wear a Variety of Hats

2009-04-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

As a real estate broker, you are required to wear many different hats -- from applying good customer service skills to helping your clients with financial questions. As you oversee your real estate office, tend to client needs and prospect for business, you should possess some important skills.

Here are key traits of a successful real estate broker:

Confidence -- In a sales situation, especially one as significant as selling a house, you need to bring confidence to the table. Deals with fall through, people will change their minds, and other brokers will beat you to the punch -- it is important to handle these situations as objectively as possible.

Good People Skills -- Real estate is a people business -- as a broker, you will interact with different people every day. You need to be able to effectively communicate with them and have an innate understanding of their needs.

Organization -- This is an essential part of your real estate broker career! When you have multiple clients, you need the ability to stay on top of everything -- conducting open houses, showing properties, taking listings, handling offers, negotiating prices, etc.

Problem-Solving -- Your quick-thinking ability will come in handy as a real estate broker. Handling problems and coming up with quick-fix solutions are a huge part of a broker career. Real estate negotiations can be tough and requires someone that can adapt quickly and compromise.

Self-Motivated -- As a real estate broker, you are in charge -- of the real estate office, sales team and your overall broker career. It is important that you be able to take initiative, from marketing your business to building your client base.

The number of deals you have closed is not the only indicator of a successful real estate broker -- you also need confidence, effective problem solving and people skills, initiative and solid ability to handle everything on you plate. Your "get it all done" ability combined with a positive and welcoming attitude will make you stand out in your real estate broker career.

Attract Real Estate Clients Online: Five Easy Tips for Success

2009-04-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

There has been a major shift in the way buyers and sellers look for a real estate agent and the number one source they turn to is the Internet. If you are a real estate agent who has weathered the storm through this recent recession, you know that you need to create other ways to attract clientele. Take the time now to invest in your online presence -- it's crucial for your future success.

Here are five ways to attract real estate clients online:

1. Build a Website: The first thing you need to do is build a website that you can use to showcase your featured homes and keep folks informed about everything you have to offer. These days, you can find a web designer for fairly cheap and a simple website should not cost you an arm and a leg. It is a good idea to reserve your personal name as your domain name if it is available. In other words, if your name is John Smith, you should try and reserve the domain johnsmith.com or johnsmithhomes.com -- this is a great way to get people to remember your name.

2. Advertise on Craigslist: Craigslist.org is a free website where many real estate agents post their listings. This website generates a ton of traffic and you can specify exactly what city you are in and target localized traffic. You can upload photos of the home and even provide a link to your website.

3. Use SEO Tactics: Once your website is complete, you will want to make sure that prospective clients will find you when they search a certain term on Google or other search engines. If you are a real estate agent in Denver, Colorado -- you want to show up in the search results if someone searches "Denver real estate agent." The best thing that you can do is to fill your website with keywords that you want to target in the text body. It may take a while, but eventually your website will begin to show up in the searches.

4. Use Google Adwords: If you don't want to wait for your website to show up in the searches, you can sign up as an advertiser on Google's adwords program. You can literally choose the keywords that you want to advertise for and you will immediately show up in the advertising section during searches. There is a small cost involved each time that someone clicks on your ad through these searches, but if you pay $1 for a click and that click winds up being a buyer that purchases a $500,000 home -- the payoff is enormous!

5. Create an Email List: As you get inquiries from clients, add their email to your list of contacts and send out a monthly update on your listings. A word of warning though, most people do not want to receive daily or even weekly email from a real estate agent; a once a month email is unobtrusive and typically won't offend the recipients. Always offer an option for those who have finished their purchase or sale to opt out of your email list if they no longer wish to be contacted. Email is a great way to keep buyers and sellers informed as prices changes and interest rates fluctuate.

The Real Estate Market is Primed for an Upswing -- Get Your Real Estate License Today!

2009-04-14T13:53:00.000-07:00

With the entire country in a recession and annual home sales at an all-time low, many people might tell you that you are crazy to consider becoming a real estate agent. But there are indicators that the real estate industry is about to undergo a major change. With interest rates lower than ever, undervalued home prices and limited new construction, the real estate market is primed for growth -- meaning opportunity for licensed professionals!

In fact, in February of 2009 the nation saw a strong sign that points to an upward trend in the real estate market. New home construction rose 22.2% and savvy home buyers are taking advantages of the low prices and the opportunity to lock in interest rates as low as 4.5%. So don’t be deterred by the past, take the steps that can help improve your life and provide some quality income for you and your family.

If you are interested in getting your real estate license, you can try and find a local real estate course in your town or city to help provide you with all of the information you would need to pass your state's real estate exam. Each state has different requirements and you should find out exactly what tools you need to become a licensed real estate agent. Nowadays, most people are choosing to take their required real estate courses online -- this makes it much easier for those people who have a full time job or for parents who have children at home.

You can take these online real estate courses when it is most convenient for you and you don't have to worry about attending a class or driving to a remote location. Most courses offer online quizzes that will help you hone your question and answer skills to prepare you for the state exam.

Once you are a licensed real estate salesperson and the housing slump is still in effect, you can begin to build a network of contacts in your community and start launching your real estate career. As the real estate market begins to rebound, you will be in prime position to reap the sales opportunities that are sure to arise when the economy improves. Of course, there is no guarantee exactly when the economy will turn around but by obtaining your real estate license now, you can be assured that you will be ready when the time comes.

The best part about being a real estate agent is the fact that you have a flexible schedule that will allow you to maintain your primary source of income while you start your real estate career. So what are you waiting for? Get your real estate license and seize this opportunity!

How to Make a Smooth Transition into a Florida Real Estate Career

2009-03-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

Our parents and grandparents used to build their career with one company - they were rewarded for their loyalty and spent their lives working for the same business. Today, it is oftentimes a different story. Showing up everyday and working hard will not necessarily keep your job secure. There is a different corporate culture.

The good news is that you're in charge. You can easily change careers. So, what's a career that's exciting, on the cutting edge and flexible? How about starting a career as a Florida real estate sales associate? It's quick and easy to complete a Florida real estate course and transition into a rewarding real estate career.

Florida offers diverse real estate options - you can build a career promoting the sunniest weather and most attractive real estate in the nation! While the current economy may have hampered your other career efforts, real estate is geared up for opportunity - affordable prices and increased foreclosures have opened the door for many buyers. If you want to switch careers and get your Florida real estate license, here's some steps to help you get started:

-Research the career - Become an expert in Florida real estate. Find out the career outlook and locate real estate companies in your area. Find out about a typical day is like on the job.
-Get involved - Network, network, network! Join professional groups and associations that will enable you to make contacts and get an inside look at the real estate industry. Talk to other Florida real estate agents and ask questions about the career. This can also help get your foot in the door for a job.
- Become an expert - Take the necessary Florida real estate classes to complete your education requirements. Also, learn about the areas you are interested in - get to know the neighborhoods, schools and communities.
- Develop a strategy - Make a detailed plan on how you are going to start your Florida real estate career. Sending out dozens of resumes is not usually effective in today's job market. Figure out how to get yourself noticed and take the necessary steps to start your new career.

It doesn't have to be difficult to change careers. If you received a pink slip instead of a raise, you don't have to get discouraged. Starting a new career doesn't have to be difficult - it just takes proper research and planning to make a smooth transition. A Florida real estate career can put you into a rewarding and exciting career field - and make for a solid career choice in today's uncertain economy. Visit our new Florida Real Estate License Page at Squidoo.com

Distance Education and Your Georgia Real Estate Career

2009-03-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

You've decided that you want a change. Maybe you were laid off or your current career is flagging in the current economy - whatever the reason, you have turned to Georgia real estate. With affordable prices and foreclosures spurring the Georgia real estate market, you are ready to become a licensed salesperson. You might still be working, have to tend to family responsibilities, or live far away from a school. What do you do?

Distance education enables you to complete your coursework away from an actual Georgia real estate school. You can complete all of the license requirements without stepping foot in an actual classroom. Think of it as a virtual classroom - you independently prepare for your new Georgia real estate career through online or traditional home-study courses.

Learning online enables you to complete the Georgia real estate course requirements from your home or office - you can be in charge of your education, with the ability to make decisions about when and where to study. In today's busy world, you need a learning option that fits with your life. Enrolling in an accredited online Georgia real estate school lets you advance your career while focusing on your life.

Benefits of Distance Education

Distance education is on the rise - not just with real estate courses. You will find online schools offering courses in all fields and types of programs. With availability, enrollment and course offerings dramatically increasing in the last decade, there are more reasons than ever to enroll in an online Georgia real estate school. You will receive a quality real estate education and experience all of the benefits:

1. Flexible schedule - You can learn on your own time and at your own pace.
2. Convenient setting - You can attend class from almost any location.
3. Accessible materials - You can retrieve your Georgia real estate course materials at any time.
4. Relevant content - You can gain real-world experience.
5. Ease of use - You can easily access course materials - the Georgia real estate classes are user-friendly.
6. Work/family balance - You can keep your job and maintain the responsibilities in your life while you train.

In today's society, distance education is becoming a necessary alternative to traditional face-to-face instruction. With a greater percentage of students balancing academics, careers and families, there is a growing need for an educational method that fits with your life. Prepare for your Georgia real estate career from the comfort of home - and experience all of the flexibility and convenience an online course has to offer.

Starting a new career has never been easier - simply turn on your computer, access the Internet and log onto your Georgia real estate course. You set the pace of your studies and learn when you want. Before you know it, you will reach your goals of becoming a Georgia real estate salesperson. Choose the distance education program that suits you today!

A Real Estate Career is Still a Good Choice

2009-03-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

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.

How to Brand Your Texas Real Estate Career

2009-03-19T09:15:00.000-07:00

With the uncertainty of today's real estate market, you need to way to stand out in your Texas real estate career. Building a brand provides people with an easy way to remember you - something to associate with your name. It also serves to build trust with your clients and the community - and can benefit you even in a stable economy.

Many successful Texas real estate agents are realizing the importance of creating a brand or image as a way to gain recognition within their local community. One of the most effective ways to do this is to create an identity that serves as a distinction from the competitors in the area. How do you want to be known?

- Have you sold a large number of homes in one area?
- Do you know the neighborhoods inside and out?
- Are you customer service-oriented
- Are you available day and night?

Think about what separates you from other Texas real estate salespeople and build your brand around this concept. Once you decide on a brand, you'll want to get it in front of people and start building recognition. Here are some easy, cost-effective ways to brand your Texas real estate career (Remember, the idea is to create a presence in your community):

Logo - You should create an image to go with your brand. It can be anything as simple as using your photo to designing a memorable picture. This logo should be used everywhere that you market yourself - letters, emails, fliers, etc.

Tagline - Maybe you'll become Mr. (Insert City Name Here) or (Insert Your Name Here), Your One-Stop Real Estate Source. Whatever you decide, make sure it's catchy and goes with your brand. You should always include your tagline in conjunction with your logo.

Blog - Creating brand awareness, also means putting yourself in front of people. You should create a weekly blog and offer insight, news and tips - anything your clients would find helpful. Add keywords and other SEO techniques to garner traffic to your blog. Increased readership means increased awareness!

Correspondence - Don't send out your letters or official documents on any old type of paper. Use personalized stationary - with your logo and tagline included - when you create any kind of correspondence.

Articles - You are a Texas real estate expert - put your knowledge to good use and create articles for local newspapers or write newsworthy articles. This is an ideal way to offer useful information, while putting your name in front of the public.

Visit Clients - Pay your previous clients a visit or send prospective clients a holiday-themed gift. A magnetic calendar with your contact information or a coffee mug with your logo and tagline are great ways to perform a thoughtful gesture and get your name out there.

Follow Up - This is vital to gaining repeat business and positive word-of-mouth. What better way than to be known as providing superior customer service that by doing it on a regular basis? Making sure your clients are happy can pay off tenfold if they use your Texas real estate services again or refer business your way.

Creating brand awareness does not have to be expensive. There are simple and effective steps you can take to keep your Texas real estate career active - and stand out from the competition. In any type of market, you should be proactive and separate yourself from other Texas real estate agents. You worked hard to get your Texas real estate license - a clever logo or tagline can build recognition and your career!

How to Receive an $8,000 Tax Credit When You Buy Washington Real Estate - as a First-Time Homebuyer

2009-03-19T09:06:00.000-07:00

First-time homebuyers have an exclusive opportunity this year to receive money back when they buy their first home - creating even more reasons to purchase Washington real estate. If you've had your eye on a Seattle-area condo or island home, this is an excellent time to make your move.

The new $787 billion stimulus bill recently signed into effect by President Barack Obama opens the door for many first-time homebuyers - and Washington real estate salespeople who will help buyers make their purchases. Thinking about buying your first home? Here are some things you should know about the first-time homebuyer tax credit:

- You have to qualify as a "first-time homebuyer" - This means that you haven't owned a principal residence for three years prior to buying a home this year. If you own or have owned a rental property or vacation home that is not your primary residence, you can take still take advantage of the tax credit.

- You have up to $8,000 available to you - The credit amount is determined by taking 10% of the original purchase price (not to be greater than $8,000). The best news? Unlike the previous $7,500 tax credit, this one does not have to be re-paid.

- You have to purchase your home this year - The tax credit only applies to Washington real estate properties purchased during 2009 - from January 1 to December 31, 2009. If you just bought your home in late December 2008, you will not qualify. (Note: The date of purchase is the day the title is transferred or when the home "closes.")

- You can purchase any kind of property - Previous tax credits placed limits on the types of real estate you could buy; however, the new program lets you buy any type of property, including a condo or townhouse - putting Washington real estate even more within reach.

- You have to be within the income requirements - There are some income limitations for the new first-time homebuyer tax credit. As a single buyer, your modified adjusted gross income must be $75,000 or less; as a married couple, your modified adjusted gross income must be $150,000 or less. If you earn more than these amounts, you will not be eligible for the tax credit; however, there may be partial credits available to you. Contact a Washington real estate salesperson for details.

- You have to own your new residence for three years - Part of the stipulation of the text credit program is that you have to own your home for at least three years. If you decide to move before the three years is up, you will have to return the credit.

- You might receive a refund if you don't have any tax liabilities - This means that you can claim the homebuyer credit even if you have little or no federal income tax liability to offset the credit. In this case, the government will send you a check for a portion or all of the refundable tax credit.

You should start planning now to take advantage of the new first-time homebuyer tax credit. It is only available for a limited time and provides you with a unique opportunity to more readily afford a new home - with exclusive tax benefits. Contact a Washington real estate salesperson today and determine the type of house that is right for you. Now is the time to claim your piece of Washington real estate!

How to Start Your Career as a Real Estate Broker

2009-03-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

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.

A Broker License Opens the Door to Opportunity

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 Broker License.

Customer Service: The Backbone of Your California Real Estate Career

2009-03-19T08:40:00.000-07:00

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.

Licensed Appraisers: Changes to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac Codes of Conduct

2009-02-19T09:04:00.000-08:00

In response to the current state of the real estate market, appraisal practices have come under scrutiny -- during the boom, appraisers routinely signed off on a doubling and tripling of home values. To prevent any further misconduct, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced revisions to their Home Valuation Code of Conduct -- effective May 1, 2009.

Lenders that sell their loans to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will be required to follow new guidelines. The biggest change -- mortgage brokers and realtors will no longer be able to choose their own appraisers. Licensed appraisers will be selected by the lender. This will make the appraisal process more impartial, as lenders have no influence over appraisers. If lenders have their own in-house appraisers, the new code of conduct will prevent the loan-origination department from influencing the appraiser's decision or supervising their work.

If you are a licensed appraiser, you will most likely be affected by these upcoming appraisal changes. As Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are such loan giants, the new code will affect most appraisers nationwide. Lenders who operate independently do not have to follow the new rules; however, the new code can serve to set a good example for the rest of the industry and aid in preventing another housing crisis. It can also provide more opportunities for today's appraisers -- all appraisers can equally vie for available jobs and create a higher standard for the industry in the process.

Beware of Offers to Lower Your Property Taxes -- Do it Yourself for Free!

2009-01-28T11:09:00.000-08:00

With house values on the decline, you may not be surprised when an official letter arrives at your house with an offer to reassess your property and lower your property taxes -- for a fee. Before you act on it, watch out!

Companies are taking advantage of today's economic situation to send letters, oftentimes looking like a bill, to consumers with this offer. Although they look official, they are not -- these companies are committing consumer fraud. You can easily file your own paperwork, free of charge, with the county assessor's office and request a re-assessment of your property.

If you purchased your home within the last five years, you will probably benefit most from a re-assessment of your property taxes. Make sure you work directly with a legitimate government agency and don't ever accept offers in the mail -- unless they are from your county assessor.

Orange County Home Buying Increased in 17 Zip Codes

2008-10-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

According to recent DataQuick home selling statistics, a span of 22 business days from mid August through September 15 revealed a 25.7% increase (above one year ago) in Orange County home buying. In fact, home sales doubled or more in 17 Orange County zip codes. Here's a look at the zip codes and the year-over-year increases:

1. Santa Ana (92703) - 450%
2. Santa Ana (92706) - 300%
3. Santa Ana (92707) - 300%
4. Anaheim (92806) - 266.7%
5. Anaheim (92805) - 221.1%
6. Anaheim (92807) - 200%
7. Garden Grove (92844) - 200%
8. Santa Ana (92704) - 171.4%
9. Garden Grove (92843) - 170%
10. Tustin (92780) - 161.1%
11. Anaheim (92804) - 144.4%
12. Fountain Valley (92708) - 142.9%
13. Santa Ana (92701) - 130.8%
14. Anaheim (92801) - 128.6%
15. Westminster (92683) - 128%
16. Newport Beach (92662) - 100%
17. Santa Ana (92705) - 100%

With good deals on the market and programs like the government's $7,500 tax credit for first time home buyers, Orange County home buyers are getting off the sidelines and into the game. Real estate is cyclical, so while some housing markets face challenges, other housing markets flourish. These 17 zip codes are a prime example.

Why not take advantage of this opportunity and others? Get your California real estate license online in your free time and tap into this market. Turn the home ownership dreams of qualified buyers into reality and be prepared to take on the next market upswing.

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.

By Danielle Macklin, Allied Schools