Sell Yourself
Secrets of search engine marketing

Because most consumers do online research before contacting a real estate professional, “search visibility, wisely managed, can generate leads and garner sales,” says Internet marketer Kristen Veraldi. The most common search words are city, state and the words “real estate” or “homes for sale,” adds Realtor Joe Ballarino. “If you expect people to find [your Web site] when they type in your city, 'Florida, real estate’ or ‘homes for sale’ then you must say somewhere on your [Web] page that you offer ‘real estate’ and ‘homes for sale' in your city's name and 'Florida.’” Get many more tips in this video.

Manage Your Business
How to hire a great assistant

Dixie Taylor, a top producer with Keller Williams Heritage Realty in Lake Mary was feeling frazzled. She had to steal time from her family in order to keep up with her daily workload. Then she hired an assistant, and found a better balance in life. If you’re considering an assistant, Taylor says look for people who have good phone, computer and organizational skills – and a friendly personality. More tips from Taylor.

Success Stories
Pay it forward

Top-producing Jacksonville sales associates Sue Andrews and Sharon Pacetti realize that success is not always measured in dollars and cents. They believe in “paying it forward,” by helping low-income women enter the Jacksonville job market. They collect professional garments and monetary donations for a local nonprofit, Success Suits You, changing lives for the better.Read their inspiring story.

Learn to Earn
Go to boot camp

It’s time for “Boot Camp,” an FAR continuing education course about the realities of succeeding in the real estate profession, such as knowing what to do, what to say and being accountable for results. The course isn’t easy – after all this is boot camp – but if you practice these actions on a regular basis, success is almost certain. This CE Express class counts as 4 hours toward your post-licensing education. Download the CE catalog here.