Florida Realtor Smart Start
The e-Newsletter for New Florida Realtors ®

Sell Yourself Sell Yourself
It’s a Great Time to Buy! Here’s help for getting the word out.

“Why should I buy now?” is a common question from today’s house-hunters. While the answer will probably vary based on individual circumstances – a new job, a growing family, a desire to retire – there are some common themes. In most Florida markets, prices have fallen significantly, making homes more affordable. However, sales volume is beginning to pick up and mortgage rates remain historically low. Finally, the selection of desirable homes has never been better. Get more tips and market positives..

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Manage Your BusinessManage Your Business
Are you off to a smart start?

New sales associates approach the business from different perspectives. But successful rookies share two common attributes: enthusiasm for real estate and a dedication to their clients and customers. Whether calling for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) properties on a Monday morning (after checking the Do Not Call Registry) or creating a blog about neighborhood market conditions, these rookies are going the extra mile to get their careers off to a strong start. More smart tips.

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Success StoriesSuccess Stories
How to handle the curve ball


When Rosa Nell Hammer launched her real estate career in 1967, mortgage foreclosures were high and homes were often on the market for more than a year. Today, Hammer, a broker-associate with The Keyes Co./Realtors in Miami Lakes, and her partner Allan Pelaez sell about $10 million in South Florida properties annually despite the curve balls constantly coming their way. Based on her experience with several market cycles, Hammer advises rookies to grab as many listings as possible and help sellers understand their options in challenging market conditions.More tips from Hammer.

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Learn to EarnLearn to Earn
It pays to know: Read the "Recent Home Buyers" study

Wondering what motivates homebuyers to purchase in today’s market? The Florida Association of Realtors together with the National Association of Realtors interviewed more than 800 recent homebuyers about their Florida buying experience during a three-month period in 2008. Among the findings: 86 percent used a real estate agent and 68 percent found their real estate agent via the Internet. Download the study here.

Member Benefit
FAR keeps you up to date
As a reader of FAR’s Start Smart e-newsletter, you know that your state association is committed to providing members with timely, useful advice and information. Watch for other valuable media services from FAR, like the career-enhancing information in Florida Realtor magazine, the 24/7 services at the floridarealtors.org Web site and the daily news in EarlyBird e-newsletter. Find out more.
News & Events
Get a your pass to NAR Trade Show & Expo
The National Association of Realtors (NAR) invites all Florida members at no charge to visit NAR’s Expo at the 2008 Realtors Conference & Expo in Orlando, November 7 -10. Held at the Orange County Convention Center, this premier real estate marketplace offers 600 exhibitors’ products and services, great deals, samples and terrific giveaways. Your VIP pass includes the International 2nd Home & Resort Pavilion with more than 100 developers and the International Networking Center with 50 countries represented. Download flier and pass.

Ethics Tips

When acting as agents or brokers of buyers and tenants, Realtors® are not obligated to continue to show properties to their clients after an offer has been accepted unless agreed otherwise in writing.

. See NAR Code of Ethics & Standards 1.8.
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© 2008 Florida Association of Realtors ®