Professional Development
Weekly News
October 12, 2021
7 Fixes to Avoid Major
Foundation Problems

Water can damage a foundation in countless ways, so homeowners should look to experts for the dos and don’ts. Water is not always our friend. Sure, we drink it, swim in it, and need it to survive, but when it comes to homes, it can destroy the foundation, says home inspector Thomas Dabb of Immaculate Home Inspections in South Orange, N.J. Water can enter a home from the exterior and interior, so buyers and homeowners need to keep their eyes open for signs of its presence—or worse—its damage.
Tech Tools Real Estate Pros Most Commonly Use

Real estate professionals are rapidly adopting technology for closing transactions or for marketing. Most home buyers start their hunt online so agents are casting a wide net. Forty-one percent of more than 6,000 executives and senior management at real estate firms surveyed say one of their biggest challenges over the next two years is keeping up with technology, according to the 2021 Real Estate in a Digital Age report produced by the National Association of REALTORS® that looks at how technology is being used in real estate.
Watch for These Words in Email Scams

Email scams are on the rise: 2020 saw a 25% increase in the number of phishing sites compared to the previous year. Pay close attention to emails you receive and to their subject lines. Phishing scams often hold some commonalities in subject lines and keywords.
Why This Fall Is a Big Opportunity
for Buyers

 The housing market has been fiercely competitive over the last few months, but hopeful buyers who keep getting shut out may soon find better luck. Several signs in the housing market point to a potential opening to buy this fall, housing analysts say.
GRI 504 Working with Buyers

Consumer trends have changed dramatically as new generations enter the marketplace. Buying habits are different while needs and preferences vary between cities and rural communities. In this class, you will learn the categories of active buyers, techniques for lead generation, components of the home showing process, and negotiation strategies. Early-bird Fee: $79 thru Oct 21st

Haven’t started GRI yet? No problem, jump in! We will have the classes you need to complete this wonderful designation!
Google Maps Can Help You
Use Less Fuel

Google rolled out a new eco-friendly tool this week that now offers drivers the option to find the most fuel-efficient route when looking up directions on its Maps application. You can also see how much you can save on fuel with the altered route. Google Maps will default to the most eco-friendly route when the time it takes to make the trip is near the time for the fastest route. Users will be able to choose between the faster and the more sustainable route.
GRI 504 Working with Buyers

Consumer trends have changed dramatically as new generations enter the marketplace. Buying habits are different while needs and preferences vary between cities and rural communities. In this class, you will learn the categories of active buyers, techniques for lead generation, components of the home showing process, and negotiation strategies. Early-bird Fee: $79 thru Oct 21st
Real Estate Related Topics in November

Are you in need of those 8 hours of real estate related topics to complete your 16 hours of continuing education? We have them for you!!

BRAR's Online Partners
Blue Ridge Association of REALTORS®
PH: 540-667-2606 www.blueridgerealtors.com