April, 2024

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DOJ charges one of America’s top LOs in alleged mortgage fraud scheme

Housing Wire

Two former New Jersey -based mortgage loan originators have been charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of New Jersey according to an announcement by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger. Christopher Gallo has been noted as a top-producing loan originator, at one point being Scotsman Guide ‘s fourth-ranked LO in the country.

Mortgages 542
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Zillow offering 7-day ‘touring agreement’ for agents

Real Estate News

The NAR settlement does not address home search portals, but Zillow wants to make it easier for buyers to try out an agent in a way that aligns with new rules.

Agents 313
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HomeServices of America agrees to pay $250M to settle lawsuits

Inman

HomeServices was potentially on the hook for the remaining $4.7 billion in damages from an Oct. 31 jury verdict in Sitzer | Burnett, which awarded plaintiffs $5.3 billion.

Brokerage 186
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Energy Efficient Home Improvements Worth Doing

RIS Media

In today’s eco-conscious environment, energy efficiency isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a property’s standout feature. As a real estate agent, I witness first-hand how homeowners and buyers prioritize sustainability, driving demand for green improvements. This shift isn’t just ethical; it’s economical. Investments in energy-efficient home improvements, such as window replacements, insulation upgrades, solar panels and Energy… The post Energy Efficient Home Im

Agents 142
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3 Real Estate Office Hacks to Help Kickstart the Busy Season

Ready to better your Back Office? Dive into the secrets to a powerhouse back office with Brokermint expert, Jessica Souza. In this free download, she shares her 3 transformative hacks designed to clean house, get everyone on the same page, and set yourself up for success. From optimizing agent profiles to ensuring flawless transactions and boosting agent retention, these strategies are your ticket to a seamless operation.

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Most Home Buyers Want One, Medium-Sized Home Office

Eye on Housing

According to the latest What Home Buyers Really Want Study*, the vast majority of home buyers are looking for a home with at least one home office (or space dedicated to work/study). More specifically, 66% would prefer to buy a home with exactly one home office, 13% want at least two offices, and 20% want.

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Navigating the Housing Market: A Seasonal Perspective

NAR: Economic Outlook

Navigating the Housing Market: A Seasonal Perspective Seasonality refers to predictable changes in data that correlate with certain times of the year; understanding it will help us anticipate trends.

Marketing 133

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Why is housing supply so low? Blame local zoning

Real Estate News

Two U.S. senators are pushing for policy changes that would reduce “exclusionary” zoning regulations and promote local development.

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Underperforming agents are getting a real estate reality check

Inman

As the commission landscape changes, Side's Hilary Saunders writes, it's time for agents, teams and brokerages to look at the ways this will improve the industry's reputation.

Agents 180
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The Impact of Liens on Real Estate Sales

RIS Media

A property lien is not just a term but a significant factor that can influence the outcome of home sales. Essentially, a lien is a legal claim or right against a property instituted by a creditor to secure debts or obligations owed by the homeowner. Its presence is a critical aspect that both buyers and… The post The Impact of Liens on Real Estate Sales appeared first on RISMedia.

Sales 140
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Why Seattle becoming the next Detroit might not be the worst thing

Seattle Times Real Estate

The challenges confronting Martin Selig, Seattle's most prolific downtown developer, are a sign of how far the city must go in recovering from the pandemic.

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Need Curated Pre-foreclosure Lists to Generate New Real Estate Leads? Trellis Has the Data!

Trellis is a state trial court research and analytics platform that provides Real Estate Professionals (Buyers, Foreclosure, Loan Modification, etc.) with LEADS on Pre-Foreclosures, Lis Pendes, Distressed Assets and more — to help uncover **new** opportunities and grow their business. The process is quick and easy — and all in real time. Trellis will supply you with a link to the relevant dockets, a Leads sheet and access to its UI where applicable.

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Buyer’s Agent: What Do They Do and How Much Are The Fees

Maximum Exposure Real Estate

Are you wondering what a buyer’s agent is and why you should have one? You are probably thinking, do I need a buyer’s agent? Many consumers wonder why they should have a representative when purchasing a home. They wonder whether there will be any value. From my years of experience as a Realtor, I know […] The post Buyer’s Agent: What Do They Do and How Much Are The Fees appeared first on Maximum Real Estate Exposure.

Agents 125
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Home prices post largest gain in more than a year: S&P 

Housing Wire

Home prices were near an all-time high in February. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index posted a 6.4% annual gain in February, up from a 6% gain in January, according to the newest report released Tuesday. It was the largest annualized increase recorded since November 2022. On an annual basis, the 10-city composite index grew by 8%, up from 7.4% the previous month.

Sales 479
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How are agents paid? Don’t ask buyers

Real Estate News

More than a quarter of consumers surveyed by Redfin don’t know how much their agent was paid, while nearly 20% weren’t sure who provided the compensation.

Agents 329
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12 factors that convince a buyer to pay a full-service commission

Inman

Expressing your value to clients begins with knowing yourself, writes mega-team leader Carl Medford. You cannot articulate what you have never taken the time to determine on your own.

MLS 174
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Accelerating Real Estate Sales Pipelines to Streamline Buyer Journeys

Navigated 360° tours, like YourVRTours, advance pipelines by engaging clients further along the sales funnel. These immersive experiences provide comprehensive property insights, increasing buyer intent and readiness. By embracing navigated tours, agents can optimize property exposure, better qualify leads, and streamline the sales process. Stay ahead in the ever-evolving real estate landscape with innovative technology that elevates buyer journeys and progresses pipelines more effectively.

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How to Assess the Financial Stability of an HOA

RIS Media

Understanding a Homeowner Association’s (HOA) financial stability is crucial for maintaining property values and ensuring residents’ high quality of life. Key examination elements include reserve funds, special assessments and financial planning. Reserve funds cover significant repairs and replacements, special assessments address unforeseen expenses and financial planning ensures long-term stability.

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Inflation Stays Hot as Housing Cost Growth Persists

Eye on Housing

Consumer prices continued to rise in March, with shelter and gasoline prices driving over half of the total increase. This marks the third consecutive strong reading. Despite a slowdown in the year-over-year increase, shelter costs continue to put upward pressure on inflation, accounting for over 60% of the total increase in all items excluding food.

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Windsor Terrace Locals Want a Shorter, More Affordable Arrow Linen Project

Brownstoner

Locals called for proportional and contextual development in Windsor Terrace -- rather than high-rises that could set precedent for the neighborhood and beyond -- at a heated community meeting on a proposed 13-story development on Tuesday night. More than 200 residents from Windsor Terrace and surrounding neighborhoods packed Shepherd’s Hall… Read More > The post Windsor Terrace Locals Want a Shorter, More Affordable Arrow Linen Project appeared first on Brownstoner.

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GSEs will not count buyer agent commissions as IPCs

Housing Wire

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will not count buyer’s agent commissions as part of their allowable interested party contributions (IPCs), according to announcements from the government-sponsored enterprises (GSEs) on Monday. The GSEs noted that this guidance was not an update to their selling guides but a clarification on the treatment of seller-paid real estate agent fees.

Agents 530
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Maximizing Your Online Presence: Tips for Real Estate Agents on Social Media

Speaker: Sarah Santa Ana, Real Estate Coach, Move4Free Realty

Networking is one of the crucial elements in every real estate organization's success. Both agents and real estate companies need to maintain robust networking links. This is why social media is essential for any real estate professional! Social media enables you to stay in touch with your present clients, maintain connections with your past clients, and engage potential customers and investors.

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KW CEO on emerging from the wilderness, looking to the future

Real Estate News

Mark Willis returned to Keller Williams after a 7-year hiatus, and he’s ready to lead in a new way. “It’s not about proving myself. It’s about impact.

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CoStar to acquire 3D scanning company Matterport for $1.6B

Inman

Matterport's board of directors unanimously approved the deal, which will be finalized later this year. CoStar purchased its outstanding stock for $5.50 per share, reflecting a value of $1.6 billion.

Brokerage 186
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Wallpaper Removal Cost Guide: DIY vs. Professional Removal

RIS Media

Removing wallpaper can rejuvenate or transform any space. Whether you’re updating your home’s look or preparing to put your house on the market. However, deciding between embarking on a DIY project or hiring professionals involves more than just time and effort. It’s also about understanding the costs involved. I will share my knowledge of the… The post Wallpaper Removal Cost Guide: DIY vs.

Marketing 137
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Highest Paid Occupations in Construction in 2023

Eye on Housing

Half of payroll workers in construction earn more than $58,500 and the top 25% make at least $79,450, according to the latest May 2023 Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) and analysis by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). In comparison, the U.S. median wage is $48,060, while the top.

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Rise of The Apps: Building Your Dream Tech Stack For Real Estate Success

Speaker: Trey Willard, Realtor/Team Leader at Keller Williams Realty, Inc.

In order to create continued success in today’s real estate market, realtors need to utilize an arsenal of technology that will increase their efficiency and presence on social media. Using technology to manage your prospects and tap into their needs through websites, social media, and other channels is critical for real estate success in 2022 and beyond.

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Amid Seattle growth debate, map shows walkable neighborhoods in King County

Seattle Times Real Estate

Nat Henry wanted to know where he could build his life around walking and biking. Turns out a lot of other people were wondering about 15-minute neighborhoods, too.

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NAR clarifies details on buyer broker agreements

Housing Wire

As the July deadline for the implementation of the business practice changes outlined in the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) commission lawsuit settlement agreement approaches, the trade organization is looking to iron out some details about buyer broker agreements. Under the terms of the settlement agreement , agents will have to have a written agreement with a client in order to work with them as a buyer’s agent.

MLS 466
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DOJ can reopen its investigation into NAR, appeals court rules

Real Estate News

Ruling could lead to further changes in industry practices by allowing the Department of Justice to revisit an antitrust case originally settled in 2020.

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60-day clock begins for brokerages seeking to opt into $418M NAR deal

Inman

Sitzer | Burnett plaintiffs on Friday asked the court to preliminarily approve the proposed deal. Brokerages and MLSs that were left out initially will have to take action by June 18 to be covered.

Brokerage 182
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5 Data Proven Ways Agents Can Do 18% More Business

Curious as to how you could do 18% more business? How about 14 more transaction sides per year? Check out this infographic with data from a RealTrends study to learn more.

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Social Skills: How to Refocus Your Social Media Marketing if TikTok Gets Banned

RIS Media

Editor’s Note: Social Skills is a bi-monthly feature in RISMedia’s Daily News focused on social media and digital marketing tips, trends and solutions for agents and brokers. As the TikTok ban looms—with the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act now signed into law and in motion—there’s many in the real estate industry that… The post Social Skills: How to Refocus Your Social Media Marketing if TikTok Gets Banned appeared first on RISMedia.

Marketing 123
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Building Material Prices Continue to Rise in March

Eye on Housing

Inputs to residential construction, goods less food and energy, increased for the fifth straight month, according to the most recent Producer Price Index (PPI) report published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The index for inputs to residential construction, goods less food and energy, represents building materials used in residential construction.

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Unpaid rent in low-income housing skyrocketed, evictions may be next

Seattle Times Real Estate

Tenants in low-income housing are struggling to pay rent — or refusing, depending on whom you ask. Either way, the debt could hurt affordable housing long-term.

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Finally, some healthy housing inventory growth

Housing Wire

Housing inventory finally hit my target level of growth last week with mortgage rates now over 7.25% , something I couldn’t get all last year. Of course, what is different this year versus last year is that new listing data is growing yearly instead of trending at the lowest levels recorded in history. This is something I talked about last week on Yahoo Finance.

Mortgages 504
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How Enriching the Lives of Your Clients Leads to Greater Sales Success

Speaker: Ari Capogeannis, Director - Revenue Marketing at NVIDIA and Bill Pappa, Sales and Marketing Leader at Ai Media Group

Building strong personal and professional relationships with clients is a critical success factor. Sales professionals who focus on relationship building generate more leads and raise their brand awareness. Because this can take time, having regular engagements can help you cultivate these relationships more efficiently. The most effective way to accomplish this is through direct hyper-personalized touchpoints.