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Business Development category.

5 Tips for Managing Your Mistakes

RISMEDIA, May 16, 2008-(careerbuilder.com)-As a leader, you are bound to make mistakes. It is human nature to want to forget about, cover up, or blame someone or something else for them happening. But the most effective leader is one who not only manages mistakes, but turns them into opportunities for furthering your vision. This article […]

Realtors Increasing Professionalism, Survey Shows

RISMEDIA, May 16, 2008-REALTORS® are raising their level of professionalism through training and experience to better serve consumers, and are demonstrating their versatility and breadth of expertise in a changing marketplace, according to 2008 National Association of REALTORS® Member Profile.
The survey results are representative of more than 1.2 million Realtors-about 60% of the nearly 2 […]

Why Now is a Great Time For a 1031 Exchange

Commentary by Steve Rodgers and Jon Ryan
RISMEDIA, May 16, 2008-Any successful investor will tell you that the benefits of real estate investing are many: big profits, security and a historical track record of growth. The downsides, however, can be equally challenging. Investors who sell a real estate property face steep taxes that can cut deeply […]

Tips for Working Faster in Microsoft Outlook

By Etan Horowitz
RISMEDIA, May 17, 2008-(MCT)-Using keyboard shortcuts instead of a mouse to perform routine tasks in Microsoft Outlook can save you time and let you work more efficiently. Of course you’ll want to make sure you know what you are doing before executing these shortcuts so you don’t end up sending a raunchy joke […]

All Hands on Deck - Staying One Step Ahead of the Local Competition

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, May 17, 2008-There are many advantages for real estate companies for having the right real estate team in place. One of the more popular ones, however, is the idea of better managing one’s time. Whether it’s with company meetings or working with clients, Judson Henderson, broker of record for Henderson Sotheby’s International […]

10 Must-Haves for Your Real Estate Website-Part 2

By Jonathan Nicholas
RISMEDIA, May 17, 2008-There is no such thing anymore as too much information. These days, withholding information makes us less valuable to potential clients, not more. From new buyers to empty nesters, your website should be a one-stop resource that answers every possible question a customer might have. The following are the concluding […]

Taming the Multitask Dilemma - 3 Ways to Improve Life and Work

By Liz Reyer
RISMEDIA, May 17, 2008-(MCT)-Question: Lately people are telling me that I multitask too much. Even my kids are complaining! I don’t know any other way to get everything done, and I’m afraid I’ll miss something important. Any suggestions?
Answer: If you try to do three things at once, you’re really only doing one, and […]

Is Your Customer More Knowledgeable Than You? Helping Consumers Grasp Real Estate Part II

RISMEDIA, May 17, 2008-Continuing last week’s Viewpoints series on helping consumers better understand the real estate process, Sherry A. Chris, President & CEO of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC, takes center stage and poses the question, “Is your customer more knowledgeable than you?”
Is Your Customer More Knowledgeable Than You?
Sherry A. Chris
President & CEO
Better […]

Realtors Return to Capitol Hill

RISMEDIA, May 14, 2008-As Realtors® across the country gather this week for the National Association of Realtors Midyear Legislative Meetings & Trade Expo, they come committed to working with Congress and the administration to stimulate housing markets, improve access to affordable property insurance, and enact small business health
care legislation.
This year’s meetings also officially mark 100 […]

Using Real Estate Technology - How to Achieve a $113,000 Income Edge

RISMEDIA, May 14, 2008-REcyber.com, the Real Estate CyberSpace Society, has released its most recent member survey showing a startling comparison between the real estate technology haves and “have nots.” The survey indicates that real estate brokers and agents who enhance their brokerage and sales skills by keeping up with the effective use of technology and […]

The Value of Realtors - C.A.R. Launches $2.1 Million Ad Campaign

RISMEDIA, May 14, 2008-The California Association of Realtors® (C.A.R.) has launched its 2008 Consumer Advertising Campaign highlighting the value Realtors bring to the transaction. Building on last year’s successful “Your Piece of California. Your Peace of Mind” theme, the campaign also will raise awareness of the Realtor® brand and reinforce the professionalism of Realtors who […]

Trulia Launches Real Estate Vertical Ad Network

RISMEDIA, May 14, 2008-Trulia.com announced the launch of a dedicated real estate advertising network that will give ad partners access to approximately 10 million monthly unique visitors across Trulia’s network of targeted real estate sites. The Trulia Ad Network (TAN), says the company, will provide unprecedented local reach with a highly targeted and engaged audience […]

10 Myths about Working with Multicultural Real Estate Clients

Commentary by Michael Soon Lee
RISMEDIA, May 13, 2008-Over 60% of all first-time home buyers in America today are minorities according to the National Association of Realtors®. There are over one million people from overseas coming into the United States every year and they all want to show friends and family they are successful by buying […]

Real Estate Leadership - A Fish Rots from the Head Down

Commentary by Don Kottick
RISMEDIA, May 13, 2008-I recently read the article featuring Sherry Chris, President and CEO of Better Homes & Gardens, on RISMedia.com titled, “Why Every Day Should be Retention Day.” There was one particular part of her article that really resonated with me-the part about hiring an agent that fits your corporate culture. […]

Assist-2-Sell Commits to the SearchHomesOnTV.com FSBO Hire-a-Pro Program

Together, Assist-2-Sell and SearchOnTV will provide For Sale by Owners with marketing and professional assistance

RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008-With the ever-increasing number of homeowners deciding to go it alone in selling their home, Assist-2-Sell is teaming with FSBO marketer SearchOnTV Inc. to provide professional services through their more than 500 offices located throughout the United States […]

Want to Save a Tree?

Commentary by Steve Adams
RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008-In the past few years there has been a trend toward increasing corporate social responsibility. And a part of this trend has been taking measures to reduce both the consumption of natural resources and the generation of waste.
Organizations across the country have installed bins to recycle paper, glass and […]

Move Offers Targeted Way for Real Estate Advertisers to Reach Consumers

Home & Garden site enhancements optimize advertiser opportunities to Move’s 9.85 million monthly online visitors
By Beth McGuire
RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008–Advertisers in the real estate space looking for a new way to reach consumers now have a better, more targeted approach to doing so with comprehensive video and editorial content enhancements recently announced on Move.com’s Home […]

Move, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2008 Financial Results

RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008-Move, Inc. reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008.
Total revenue for the first quarter was $70.4 million compared to $68.9 million in the first quarter of 2007. Net loss applicable to common stockholders (”net loss”) for the first quarter of 2008 was $4.6 million, or $0.03 per share, […]

Open Houses - 4 Ways to Sharpen Your Strategy

By Joanne Cleaver
RISMEDIA, May 9, 2008-(MCT)-These are your mother’s open houses. Your grandma’s too, and that’s the problem. Brokers insist that open houses aren’t a waste of time because it is possible-though most admit, rare-that the perfect buyer strolls in and makes an offer that day.
Candid agents also say that open houses are terrific for […]

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World Appoints Advisory Board Members

RISMEDIA, May 9, 2008-Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® has named John D’Ambrogio of Rubloff, Inc. (IL) as chairperson of its Advisory Council. D’Ambrogio, is senior vice president/director of Operations & Relocation Services for Rubloff, Inc. and has an extensive background in real estate and relocation. Joining him on the council are the following […]

Achieving Greater Satisfaction with One-Stop Real Estate Shopping

Commentary by Ken Trepeta
RISMEDIA, May 10, 2008-The National Association of Realtors® and Harris Interactive recently partnered to conduct a public opinion study of consumer preferences when it comes to real estate services. In January, Harris surveyed over 1,400 recent and future home buyers. The last major survey of this type was conducted in 2002. The […]

The Best of Both Worlds - Mixing Expertise with Consumer-product Branding

By Stephanie Andre
RISMEDIA, May 8, 2008-It sounds simple, really. Nike and iPod do it. So do Infiniti and Bose, and Ford and Microsoft. Here’s the recipe: Take two successful companies that attract similar customers and take it a step further-create a product that speaks to both companies’ demographic audience. Then, magically you sell more shoes […]

Real Living’s National Convention Goes City Style

RISMEDIA, May 8, 2008-Real Living, one of the nation’s first women-focused real estate brands, will hold its annual convention and awards ceremony, Momentum, May 8-10 in Columbus, Ohio. Participants will have the opportunity to attend sessions led by esteemed real estate industry leaders, network with agents and brokers from across the country and enjoy two […]

Recruit More Efficiently - How to Match the Job with the Person

By Lesley Geary
RISMEDIA, May 10, 2008-After forming the Jane Garcia Team nearly 10 years ago, Jane Garcia and Jennifer Pugsley know a thing or two about edging out their competition. To conquer their market in Oregon, the team attributes their success to the individual strengths of each team member-all beginning with hiring the right people […]

How to Help Consumers Better Grasp the Real Estate Process, Part One

RISMEDIA, May 10, 2008-Evolution is defined as the process of change in the inherited traits of a population of organisms from one generation to the next. That statement couldn’t be truer in the real estate industry. As we slowly shift more attention from Baby Boomers to Generations X and Y, industry prognosticators realize that the […]

Ask the Expert - Going Green: Behind the Scenes

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, May 7, 2008-With the growing concern about the ways in which our behaviors are effecting our environment, many people are being proactive when it comes to changing their lifestyle in order to alleviate these growing problems. The focus on ‘going green’ is steadily increasing and more and more individuals are taking a […]

10 Red Flags for Home Buyers

RISMEDIA, May 5, 2008-The average home buyer views at least 10 homes over an eight week search so it isn’t practical to get a professional inspection of every house they tour. FrontDoor.com, a new real estate website powered by HGTV, comes to the rescue pointing out things to look for in your own pre-inspection that […]

11 Tips for Effective Space Planning

RISMEDIA, May 2, 2008-SmartDraw.com, makers of SmartDraw, a program that automates the process of creating business graphics, released its list of “Top Tips for Effective Space Planning.” SmartDraw, a popular business graphics software, is downloaded by more than 2 million people every year and is widely used to create polished, professional looking space plans and […]

Dickson Green - New Division Promotes Healthy, Sustainable Real Estate Practices

RISMEDIA, May 2, 2008-Operating under the belief that real estate companies have a responsibility to educate their clients, Dickson Realty has developed Dickson Green. The new division will serve as a resource for healthier, more cost-effective, green real estate practices.
What constitutes a green real estate practice? Everything from energy efficient windows and recycled building materials […]

Make a Decision to Bounce Back for the Better

RISMEDIA, May 3, 2008-(MCT)-Q: I’ve suffered a few setbacks and disappointments in the last year, and seem to be bogged down in them. A business that I began failed and my long-term girlfriend left me for someone else. I want to move past this, but just don’t seem able to bounce back. What I can […]

Beyond ‘Bus Bench’ Advertising: Broadcast Your Benefits with Your Brand

By Kurt Lynn
RISMEDIA, May 3, 2008-There’s a tendency in the real estate world to focus too much on the individual. It’s very common to see a Realtor’s photograph and name plastered on bus benches, newspapers and websites. The problem with this is that the photograph or name is not associated with any clear benefit.
It’s true […]

Recruiting 101: Don’t Fear Change

By Rich Rector
RISMEDIA, May 12, 2008-Today’s challenging real estate market may seem like a difficult time to recruit, but this can actually be the best time to recruit experienced agents. To increase your recruiting success, understanding the mindset of experienced real estate agents is critical.
Remember for most people, our biggest fear is change-the majority of […]

The Key to Stronger Computer Passwords

By Etan Horowitz
RISMEDIA, May 1, 2008-(MCT)-Creating and remembering strong passwords-like backing up our computers’ contents-is something many of us know we should do, but don’t.
And can you blame us? Having to come up with usernames and passwords for virtually everything we do on a computer is enough to make anyone use “Magic123″ over and over. […]

The Big Open House Draws ‘Incredibly Positive’ Results

RISMEDIA, May 1, 2008-The Big Open House, a region-wide event highlighting the many great homes available in the metropolitan Detroit market, lived up to its name Sunday, drawing traffic to the homes and underscoring interest in the best buyer’s market in recent memory.
“The feedback from every real estate agent and broker we’ve heard from has […]

How to Take Advantage of Professional Networking Websites

By Diane Stafford
RISMEDIA, April 30, 2008-(MCT)-Minutes after attending a seminar titled “Use Social Networking to Your Professional Advantage,” I opened my e-mail and found two new invitations to join LinkedIn.com networks.
One request came from a person I’d had professional contact with previously. I clicked “accept” and quickly went on to other things.
I didn’t recognize the […]

Real Estate Business Model - by Accident, Virtually Green

RISMEDIA, April 29, 2008-”When I conceived of the virtual business model for Allison James Estates & Homes in May of 2007, I knew we had the formula to provide a win-win-win situation for the broker, Realtor and consumer, but I never dreamed that we would also provide a ‘win’ for the environment as well,” explains […]

Are You a ‘People Pleaser’ to a Fault? 4 Signs to Watch for

RISMEDIA, April 28, 2008–Do you find yourself taking too much time with people you know are not committed to working with you? Or, do you feel like you are bothering people when you call them? This week Dr. Maya examines how to avoid “people pleasing” to the point where it hurts your business.
Q. Dear Dr. […]

Just How Green are Green Businesses?

By Jim Wyss
RISMEDIA, April 28, 2008-(MCT)-Global warming may be bad for the environment, but it has been great for one industry: eco-marketing.
With April being the month we observe Earth Day, it seems every industry is eager to tout its green credentials. There are environmentally friendly spas, green printing presses, green liquor companies, and green alternatives […]

Agent Recruiting - Sending the Right First Impression

By Allison Lewis
RISMEDIA, April 25, 2008-When was the last time you called your own office? How were the phones answered? Was the administrator patient and helpful? Were you put on hold and for how long? Did they use slang words or bad language? Were they eating or drinking? Were they able to proficiently transfer your […]

Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Launches ‘Puertas Abiertas’

RISMEDIA, April 25, 2008-On a recent Saturday, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage real estate agent Robert Aldana let it be known throughout the Hispanic community that he would be at his office should anyone want to stop by with real estate questions, get help with documents they didn’t understand, or get his assistance one on one […]

4 Ethics Tips for Recent College Grads

By Marshall Loeb
RISMEDIA, April 26, 2008-(MCT)-By all accounts, the graduating class of 2008 is a group celebrated for their technological savvy but woefully unschooled in the customs of the corporation. So if you’re a corporate newbie or a freshly minted graduate entering today’s work force, how do you succeed in the brave new world of […]

Saving Power Can Help the Environment, and Save Money

By Etan Horowitz
RISMEDIA, April 26, 2008-(MCT)-In honor of the month that brings us Earth Day, here are some tips on cutting down the amount of electricity you use to power your gadgets.
Power Management: Set your computer to go into standby, sleep or hibernate mode after between 30 and 60 minutes of inactivity. This will conserve […]

Real Estate Coaching - What to Do When a Colleague Seems to Take Too Much Credit

By Liz Reyer
RISMEDIA, April 26, 2008-(MCT)-A colleague and I co-lead many activities in our team, and generally we work together OK. However, he tends to take more credit for our accomplishments than I think is fair. How should I handle this?
A. Feeling shorted on recognition? In most situations, there’s enough to go around, so build […]

A Streamlined Approach to Real Estate Recruiting

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, April 26, 2008-Kim Hudson, vice president of recruiting operations for Texas-based Coldwell Banker United, Realtors, knows firsthand that recruiting for a fast-growing real estate company is no easy task. With the help of AlignMark’s iNTELAGENT, however, Hudson is able to implement companywide recruiting processes and oversee the operation for the six states […]

Increase Profits in a Tough Market - Learn How at RISMedia Power Broker Forum

RISMEDIA, April 24, 2008–Agents toughing it out in today’s challenging market know more than ever that if they want to stay in business they need to step up their game in differentiating themselves among the competition. Consumers are more cautious but they also are still hungry for information. How do you bridge that gap to […]

6 Ways to Take Your Place on the Internet

Commentary by Peyman Aleagha
RISMEDIA, April 24, 2008-To be successful in today’s market, the real estate professional has to do a lot more than they did previously. Today’s market is fast-moving and it’s electronic. Either take your place or find a way to be content sitting on the sidelines watching the market pass you by.
If you […]

Refocusing Your Real Estate Mission, Working for People

By Chuck Green
RISMEDIA, April 29, 2008-In real estate, considering all of the latest advances in technology, it’s important to remember that agents still work for, well, people. Thankfully, Tony Marino, broker/owner of Real Living Real Estate Solutions, figured this out early on, and positioned his business as a people-business, reaching out and finding success for […]

Council of Multiple Listing Services Announces Change in Member Category

RISMEDIA, April 24, 2008-The Board of Directors of the Council of Multiple Listing Services (CMLS) has developed a Business Partners category of membership for those companies and individuals that provide support services to Multiple Listing Services. All current Corporate Members will be converted to the new Business Partners category.
Monica Beck, chief operations officer for the […]

Traffic Growth, Time-On-Site at Move Network Delivers Advertiser Value

RISMEDIA, April 23, 2008-The March 2008 comScore and Hitwise reports show consumers continue to turn to the Move Network over the competition, making the category leader a better value for real estate and consumer advertisers.
Compared to the nearest competitors, consumers in March 2008 viewed almost three times more pages on the Move network and spent […]

Cartus Hosts Annual Broker International Conference

RISMEDIA, April 22, 2008-The 2008 Cartus Broker Network International Conference was held April 10-12 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Grapevine, Texas. The awards ceremony included the presentation of the Network’s three leading awards. CENTURY 21 Alliance of Philadelphia captured the Cartus Broker Network Cup. Accepting the Cup on behalf of CENTURY […]

Setting Your Company Apart - The Pursuit of a Different Model

By Stephanie Andre
RISMEDIA, April 21, 2008-What do you do to set yourself apart? In an industry that relies largely on name recognition with little or no differentiation from one company to another, the challenge to compete with the mega-brokers can be daunting. Las Vegas-based Avalar Real Estate is stepping up to that challenge, proving that […]

10 Tips to Boost Your Business

RISMEDIA, April 21, 2008-Earlier this month, 2008 NAR President Dick Gaylord shares with Realtors his top 10 tips to boost business in today’s market, all made possible via a video podcast. From becoming an expert in your local market and pricing homes to sell, to getting involved in the community and working with a mentor, […]

Creating a Healthy In-House Lender Relationship

Commentary by Paul W. Wylie
RISMEDIA, April 18, 2008-Real estate and mortgage. They are a natural pair, so they should connect as beautifully as a Magic Johnson no-look pass to Kareem Abdul -Jabbar did during the Los Angeles Lakers Championship Showtime Era. But far too often, real estate and mortgage companies fail to fully click with […]

Preparing Your Home for the Virtual Tour

RISMEDIA, April 18, 2008-As more buyers are turning to the Web to begin their home search, sellers in today’s market are relying on virtual tours for that oh-so-important first impression. If you are selling your home this spring, take some time to get it virtual-tour and open-house ready. Your extra spring cleaning will pay off […]

Consumers Recall Green Ads

RISMEDIA, April 19, 2008-Consumer recall of advertising with “green” messaging is very high, with more than a third (37.1%) of consumers saying they frequently recall green messaging and an additional third recalling it occasionally (33.1%), according to a new Burst Media survey. The online survey, conducted in April 2008 with more than 6,000 Web users […]

The ABCs of the ‘www’ - It’s Time to Learn the Lingo

By Etan Horowitz
RISMEDIA, April 19, 2008-(MCT)-Most endeavors develop a vocabulary all their own. Computers and the Internet are no different. Here are some terms you may encounter as you use the Web.
Embed
To use computer code to place something, such as a YouTube video or song, on a website or blog. When a video or song […]

Boosting Morale in a Down Market - Part 2

RISMEDIA, April 19, 2008-Last week, in the start of our two-part series, J.L Winn, vice president, marketing & business for VisualTour, offered his take on keeping up morale at a time when many real estate professionals are having a hard time doing just that-keeping the upbeat and optimistic attitude that’s expected of them. Here, Heidi […]

Building Long-Term Relationships

By Lesley Geary
RISMEDIA, April 19, 2008-According to Naomi Louvier, owner of Prudential Jack White Vista Real Estate, building long-term relationships is the most important thing-both internally and externally with buyers and sellers. Here, she reveals what it takes to accomplish this by building a positive, team-spirited environment where the office is both a place to […]

5 Ways to Maximize ROI and Improve Online Results

RISMEDIA, April 17, 2008-How do you know if your website is operating at peak performance? Are you converting a significant amount of online leads into meaningful conversations and transactions? Let’s find out if your site is achieving outstanding results by reviewing these five keys to online marketing success:
1. Have Them at Hello - Design
Is your […]

There’s Still Life in the Market

Commentary by Jorrit Van der Meulen
RISMEDIA, April 17, 2008-We’ve all read the bad news about our housing market. In fact, according to data from Zillow’s most recent Home Value Reports, home values continued to decline in Q4 2007 and one in three new homeowners (those who have bought in the last two years) now have […]

Tips to Successful Real Estate Open Houses in a Slow Economy

RISMEDIA, April 17, 2008-Illinois real estate isn’t selling like it used to and that means sellers and their agents are being more proactive. According to RE/MAX real estate agents around Chicago, a slower economy means more open houses than ever in Illinois.
“To see what we mean, just take a drive through almost any prime residential […]

Targeting Cell Phones

By Wailin Wong
RISMEDIA, April 17, 2008-(MCT)-For many of the 255 million Americans with cell phones, the gadgets are indispensable for everything from tracking appointments to taking photographs to telling time. Now, advertisers want their piece of the mobile phone.
As consumers increasingly use their handsets to browse the Web, it’s no wonder that advertisers see mobile […]

Catching the Eyes of Consumers

By Kayla O’Brien
RISMEDIA, April 16, 2008-Ryan Hukill’s website is a constant work in progress. As team manager of the Hukill Group within Paradigm Realty in Edmond, Oklahoma, he realizes that having an average knowledge of the Internet and its opportunities is not enough to stand out in today’s marketplace. To his benefit, he understood this […]

Cover All 4 SEO Bases to Hit an SEO Homerun

By Glenn Houck
RISMEDIA, April 16, 2008-The equivalent to a homerun on the Internet for a broker is to dominate their market in the natural (free) search results. I talk to many market- leading brokers, who can’t understand how non-brokers are beating them in the free Google results, and capturing profitable clients without paying for Pay […]

First-Time Home Buyers Now Account for Nearly One-Half of Total Sales in U.S.

RISMEDIA, April 15, 2008-First-time home buyers accounted for nearly one-half of all new and existing home sales in many areas of the country during the first quarter of 2008, according to HouseHunt’s “Current Market Conditions” random survey of member-agents. Historically, first-time buyers represent about one-third of all buyers.
The latest national survey showed first-time buyers at […]

Real Estate Firm Creates Strong Mix of Local and International Expertise

RISMEDIA, April 15, 2008-How does a real estate firm expand its expertise for international buyers while staying boutique-sized and locally focused? By hiring agents who have networking connections around the world with a variety of business skill sets, says one Scottsdale broker.
This business practice has propelled Sandra Wilken, designated broker and owner of Sandra Wilken […]

Boosting Morale in a Down Market

RISMEDIA, April 12, 2008-According to various reports, consumer confidence in March was at its lowest point since 2002, even with tax rebates and economic stimulus strategies on the horizon. Despite the most recent Fed interest rate cuts and the media’s attention shifted toward politics, the housing market-for the most part-is still very much in a […]

Broker Strategies - The Time to Buy

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, April 11, 2008- With the recent turns in the mortgage industry, and companies positioning themselves as a one-stop shop, we asked Jon Coile, president & CEO of Champion Realty-what are you doing to alleviate consumers’ fears concerning the market?
Jon Coile
President & CEO
Champion Realty
Severna Park, Maryland
The number-one thing I want consumers to know […]

10 Presentation Tips to Use in Real Estate

RISMEDIA, April 11, 2008-SmartDraw.com, makers of SmartDraw, a program that automates the process of creating business graphics, released its list of “Top Ten Sales and Marketing Presentation Tips.” According to the company, SmartDraw is downloaded by more than 2 million people every year and is widely used to create compelling, professional-looking graphics and charts for […]

This Weekend, Set Your Goals

RISMEDIA, April 12, 2008-Only 12% of 18-33 year olds with higher education experience feel they are successful and living their dream, according to a recent study sponsored by Stowers Innovations, Inc. The YesYouCan SurveyTM found 76% of parents and grandparents of 18-33 year olds also feel their goals have not been realized.
While most of the […]

Night and Day - When Home, Work Personalities Differ

By Marcia Heroux Pounds
RISMEDIA, April 12, 2008-(MCT)-At work, Roberta Young uses humor in communicating with colleagues at the Fort Lauderdale accounting firm, De Meo, Young, McGrath.
“Accountants are supposed to be dour and serious. … I try to make accounting not painful,” says Young, the firm’s managing partner.
But when Young gets home, she likes quiet. She […]

Best Practices - How to Build Your Brand

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, April 12, 2008-Do you spend too much of your time checking e-mail? What’s the best way to deal with difficult clients? How do you stand out in your marketplace? For Pat Hoferkamp, these questions can be answered confidently as she leads New Jersey’s-own Burgdorff ERA Realtors through today’s challenging market.
Pat Hoferkamp
President
Burgdorff ERA […]

What to Do When the Going Gets Tough

By Michael Guld
RISMEDIA, April 12, 2008-You’ve heard all the headlines … “rising gas prices, housing sales down, auto sales down, the escalating credit crunch, rising inflation, looming recession and possibility of stagflation.” Not exactly the kind of news that makes you want jump out of bed in the morning, is it? So what do you […]

5 Tips for Selling a Vacant Home

RISMEDIA, April 8, 2008-This spring, as it becomes a popular time for homeowners to begin preparing their homes for sale, Showhomes encourages them to do some essential steps to make sure the most important first step takes place: buyers make the decision to view the home.
“Many people think all they have to do is make […]

Moving Your Business Forward, New Conferences Debut

RISMEDIA, April 8, 2008-If a business need exists, however obscure it may be, there is probably a conference that addresses it. But will it really get the job done? If you’re like most businesspeople, you probably view conferences with a skeptical eye. Sure, they claim to be great opportunities to learn more about industry changes […]

New Campaign Takes It to the TV: ‘Where Do You Want to Be?’

RISMEDIA, April 4, 2008-The single bachelor; the newlyweds separated by military service, but dreaming of their first home; the family literally stuck to the front yard of the house they’ve outgrown; A new line of television ads running on national network and cable television asks viewers across the country - Are you where you want […]

Going the Extra Mile - Team-building Puts Focus on Good Deeds

By Darrell Smith
RISMEDIA, April 4, 2008-(MCT)- Eschewing the rope climbs and trust falls that have long been the traditional exercises at such retreats, Xyratex, based in the United Kingdom, and other companies choose to cement team bonds by giving employees a project with a higher purpose.
“We figured out what it was for fairly early,” said […]

Keeping the Client, Team Educated

By John Voket
RISMEDIA, April 5, 2008-When they’re not spending time helping the community, Sudler Sotheby’s International Realty is devoting a significant amount of time developing not only top talent, but educated consumers. For President and CEO Janice Corey, the most important task in developing top talent in the Chicago region is making sure the individuals […]

How to Kick Your Micromanaging Habit

By Liz Reyer
RISMEDIA, April 8, 2008-(MCT)-If you know (or suspect) that you’re a micromanager and want to change, you need to understand why you’re micromanaging and develop skills to allow your team to produce while you focus on leading.
Whether you’re a star performer who was promoted to management or you’re managing in a new area […]

SKY Sotheby’s International Realty Announces Luxury Real Estate Auction

RISMEDIA, April 1, 2008-SKY Sotheby’s International Realty announced it will hold its first of two Sarasota luxury property auctions for 2008 on April 11 at the Longboat Key Club and Resort, with an estimated $100 million in extraordinary properties for sale. Bidder registration begins at 9:00 a.m. on auction day, with the auction starting at […]

Reaching ‘Uber-Rich’ Consumers

RISMEDIA, March 31, 2008-Universal Media, parent of Elite Traveler, the worldwide private jet lifestyle magazine, has just acquired Luxus Networks, the world’s largest provider of private jet terminal signage for an undisclosed amount. Luxus Networks maintains a presence in more than 100 private jet terminals across the U.S.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer […]

Specializing in Seniors - How Realtors Can Embrace the Role of Advisor

RISMEDIA, March 31, 2008-In keeping with the evolving expectations of their clients, Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES(R)) — a designation of the National Association of Realtors(R) — took steps to enhance their ability to advise older Americans in decisions about senior housing. Through a partnership with SNAPforSeniors(R), SRES members now have access to the most […]

Serving Niche Customers

By Lesley Geary 
RISMEDIA, May 10, 2008-To better meet the needs of consumers, most agents are realizing that they need to specialize in certain areas, or niches. According to Mary Keen of The Keen Team, her team is made up of both those who like to work with first-time home buyers and those who like to […]

Minority Coalition to Discuss Economic Impacts, Foreclosures

RISMEDIA, March 25, 2008-The National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals will host the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) and the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) at its 2008 Legislative Conference in an unprecedented move that brings together the top minority trade groups in the real estate industry in one forum. […]

Real Estate Niches - Developing the Equestrian Community Model

By Michael & Jennifer Donovan, Equestrian Services, LLC
RISMEDIA, March 21, 2008-Equestrian community living has been around for decades. California, always the community living trend setter, began designing and planning these equestrian communities in the 1970s. Designed after successful golf community living, this concept offers a community a new theme for people with similar interests to […]

An International View - What Makes a Successful Company?

RISMEDIA, March 29, 2008-(MCT)-What makes a successful company? And equally important, why do some companies fail? There is no simple answer to either question. Academics, business schools and consultancies certainly devote large amounts and resources to answering both.
But according to Eric Rosenkranz, the chief executive officer of the business consultancy e.three Asia, success starts with […]

Why Every Day Should be ‘Retention Day’ - Part III

RISMEDIA, March 29, 2008-This week, in conclusion of our three-part recruiting and retention series, Gary Longobardo, president & COO, and Bonnie Mays, senior vice president of Realty World share what works best while being selective when it comes to looking for new recruits.
Gary Longobardo
President & COO
Bonnie Mays
Senior Vice President
Realty World
www.realtyworld.com
Brokers today should use a keen […]

Best Practices - Teaming Up for Success

By Kayla O’Brien
RISMEDIA, March 29, 2008-When it came to creating a real estate team, the decision came naturally to Bob & Teresa Kroll. With a combined knowledge of 13 years on the job, the two have found that two individuals better help meet the needs of many. Here, meet the duo and discover the ways […]

Your Business - Think Insurance for Agents Is Impossible?

RISMEDIA, March 19, 2008-It is estimated that one out of every three real estate agents in the U.S. works without the benefit of health insurance coverage. Now agents have new options to manage their cash flow and have their health insurance premiums paid by eCommission’s Premium Coverage Plan.
Committing to monthly insurance premiums is often cited […]

Friendships on the Job - Can They Work?

RISMEDIA, March 29, 2008-(MCT)-Research tells us that people are happier and more productive when they have good friends at work, but the fact is, most of us don’t.
Fewer than one in three U.S. employees has a close friend at work, someone in whom they confide, reports a University of Michigan study. Americans also are less […]

How to Make the Most of the Spring Home-Buying Season

RISMEDIA, March 18, 2008-Serious home sellers and buyers are invited to an open house with real estate and mortgage professionals who will explain how to succeed in today’s housing market. Free and open to the public, the event will provide an insider’s view of making the most of the 2008 spring home selling season.
Diane Turton, […]

Making the Real Estate Recruiting Commitment

By Stephanie Andre
RISMEDIA, March 13, 2008-When Jeri Gray took over the reigns of recruiting at RealtySouth, she quickly realized that she had not just inherited a job, but also a network of more than 2,500 untouched prospects. All the data had been procured and stored in AlignMark’s Real Estate Simulator.
“All the data was already there, […]

Get Affordable Health Coverage with HSAs

RISMEDIA, March 15, 2008-(MCT)-As your small business grows, you may want to offer some type of health plan to protect your own family, as well as keep good employees. But the cost of medical insurance coverage for small business has skyrocketed in recent years, and affordability has become a major problem.
Between 2001 and 2005, group […]

Why Every Day Should be ‘Retention Day’ - Part II

RISMEDIA, March 15, 2008-Last week, in the first of our three-part series, Sherry Chris kicked off the discussion of recruiting and retaining agents in today’s market. So, now that you know who is keeping up the pace, how are you going to keep them? Do you have a plan to bring in more agents who […]

7 Decisions That Determine Personal Success

RISMEDIA, March 15, 2008-Andy Andrews can’t say he’s your average success story. After living a relatively normal life until the age of nineteen, his parents died - his mother from cancer, his father in an automobile accident. He left college and was homeless. Penniless, he lived under the boardwalk or slept in people’s garages in […]

Best Practices - How to Edge Out Competitors

By John Voket
RISMEDIA, March 15, 2008-It’s been said time and time again that the industry is evolving and it’s time to embrace emerging technologies. So what’s really working? Here, Dan Parmer, president and CEO of Jenny Pruitt & Associates Realtors reveals how his company has become the “go-to” resource for Atlanta real estate information by […]

Real Estate Marketing Strategies - How to Quit Procrastinating for Good

By Maya Bailey, Ph.D.
RISMEDIA, March 15, 2008-As a business coach for real estate professionals for the last 12 years, I often hear the same question from my clients, “How do I stop procrastinating and do what I need to do to pick up the phone?”
This article will give you a strategy guaranteed help you overcome […]

5 Tips for Picking the Right Receptionist for Your Team

RISMEDIA, March 11, 2008-(MCT)-Your receptionist is often the first contact customers and partners have with your business, be it over the phone or in person, so it is very important to have the right person handling the job. And to hire the right person, it’s necessary to first identify what kind of employee you are […]

GMAC Global Relocation Services to Host Webinar on Doing Business in Canada

RISMEDIA, March 7, 2008-GMAC Global Relocation Services will offer a complimentary “Webinar” presentation exploring aspects of doing business and living in Canada, one of the world’s largest and most culturally diverse countries. Titled “Business Interactions with Canadians,” the Webinar takes place Tuesday, March 11 at 11 a.m. Eastern.
Understanding the vast country-its population is 32.8 million […]

Act Local, Think Global

By Paige Tepping
RISMEDIA, March 8, 2008-Thinking globally is a must for real estate practitioners these days. In an age when people own multiple homes-some halfway around the world-it’s vital to have an international reach. Halstead Property’s Diane Ramirez and Sharon Michnay understand this concept wholeheartedly. The president and director of corporate business development, respectively, lead […]