All Real Estate Articles

A real estate appraisal is a report by a certified inspector that determines the value of a property based on its features and condition. Buyers compare this value to the home price to ensure there is not a large discrepancy. Appraisals are also required by lending institutions to secure loans for the purchase of property….

Real estate marketing is all about promoting your brand as an agent and securing buyer and seller leads by sharing your listings on social media, advertising your agency, and building your website content. For fresh marketing ideas, check out our ultimate list of marketing advice from top-producing agents below. Here are 43 of the best…

Real estate lead generation software enables agents to capture, organize, and nurture leads from a variety of sources. We reviewed several lead generation tools to determine the top six, including the best overall. Software was evaluated based on price, ease of use, customer support, and features like IDX integration, blogging, and email marketing automation. Top…

Real estate marketing companies help agents market their properties using social media, advertising, online directories, and other mainstream marketing tools. We evaluated a variety of companies to identify the six best real estate marketing companies in 2019. To do so, we compared features like pricing, social media management, pay-per-click marketing, and other services. Top 6…

Buyers typically make an offer on a house by sending the seller’s agent a letter detailing the proposed purchase price. Before you make an offer, however, you must find an agent, get loan pre-approval, then find your desired property. Once these steps have been taken, send a written offer, and wait for the seller’s response….

Bandit signs are advertisements that encourage homeowners to sell their home to an investor. To attract homeowners, investors place signs with messaging like “Sell Your House for Cash” and a phone number in yards or community areas. These signs are used primarily to help investors acquire new property quickly and cheaply. The time and cost…

A real estate contract is a legally binding document between the buyer and seller or landlord and tenant of a property that details terms of the relationship. Real estate contracts are appropriate when a property is being sold, rented, assigned, or otherwise transferred. Common contract sections include property information, purchase price, contingencies, and earnest money….

A home inspector conducts a thorough visual inspection of a home prior to purchase. With an average annual income of over $50,000, a home inspector salary can offer a solid living on a flexible schedule. To become a home inspector, find out the requirements for your state, complete your coursework, and take your exam. Becoming…

Homeowners’ association (HOA) fees are dues collected from homeowners within an HOA to assist residents with maintenance and help cover HOA operation and other expenses shared by members. On average, fees range from $100 to $700 per month but vary depending on community size, number of common areas, and amenities managed by the HOA. If…

California real estate license renewal courses are required every four years and agents must take 45 hours of coursework to meet state requirements. We reviewed a dozen California real estate license renewal courses online to identify the top six. To do so, we compared price, course format, selection of elective courses, and customer support. Top…

Texas real estate exam prep materials are designed to help aspiring agents pass their licensure exam; these materials include in-person classes, practice tests, and flashcards, among other study aids. We reviewed 10 real estate exam prep solutions to find the six best (including the best overall) based on price, study aids, delivery methods, and usability. Top…