Steve Quaife,

Glenda Beam,

Amy Hoyer,

Jason Hanson,

Darren Plank,

Leah Stanley,

Breshae Brunette,

Pam McCormick,

To view the most recent Mortgage Barometer report, click here.

We are all striving for success in our businesses and in our lives, yet not all of us view success in the same way. Sometimes our stereotypical views of success can prevent us from the realization that we have already achieved it. In reality, success is better thought of as the result of understanding and using our individual influence in a positive way. If you are a leader, you probably already understand that what makes you successful isn't the control you have over others, but your ability to positively influence others to grow into the best version of themselves. Accomplishing goals and developing as human beings is a natural part of that growth.

To achieve the kind of success that allows us to become a positive influence for ourselves and those around us, consider these tips.

1 lb ground beef

1 onion

1 package taco seasoning

1 (16oz) can tomatoes

1 can kidney beans

1 (8oz) can tomato sauce

1.5 cups water

In a Dutch oven, brown ground beef, drain fat, and set aside. Sauté onions in olive oil. Combine cooked ground beef to onions, and add remaining ingredients above. Bring to boil, stir, and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour stirring every 15 minutes. Place taco soup in individual bowls, and add toppings of chopped onions, grated pepper jack & cheddar cheese, and sour cream.

Enjoy!

Good decision-making can sometimes seem like an elusive skill. Even when we feel like we make the most rational choice in the moment, sometimes it turns out to be a disaster later. The reality is that good decision-making boils down to eliminating bad choices and asking good questions. The art of decision-making is a skill that can be learned. Click here for a helpful framework for making smart decisions.

Short term rentals have become increasingly popular, and a recent study shows that a growing number of young homeowners are open to renting out some, or all, of their home in order to bring in extra income to save or invest. This may include renting their home out while they are on vacation, building additions onto their homes to rent out, or renting out a portion of their home in order to boost savings. For a look at some of the ways to generate income using short-term rentals, as well as some of the challenges that it may bring, click here.

The market is moving fast, and many homes are going under contract the first weekend they are listed, without any preparation for the market. But that doesn't mean there isn't great value in home staging in today's market. Not only does good, professional home staging capture buyers' hearts, but staged homes often receive the highest offers and bring in the largest ROI (return on investment). Staging helps sell homes 3 to 30 times faster than nonstaged homes and can help increase the sale price by an average of 20%. For a deeper look at the importance of good home staging, read this article.

Social media is an unbeatable way to gain exposure for your brand as well as the properties you represent. It allows you to connect with potential clients and keep in touch with past clients. Best of all, there are a number of ways you can leverage the power of social media without spending any money. That's a fantastic return on your "investment"! Click here for a look at ways to put your social media accounts to use in order to interact with your community and build your business.