Improving Your Business

Stories, articles and advice aimed at improving your business

Check out this tech tool used by luxury brokers

“There is technology out there that has already been built for you to reach these elites — you just need to know the shortcuts on how to tap into it.” — Anne Ewasko

The 1031 like-kind exchange is a key tool for investing in diverse and inclusive communities

It is the ultimate equal opportunity tax code provision because it provides an efficient and effective means for individuals to grow their wealth.

HUD Sec. Fudge: ‘We will enforce U.S. Fair Housing Act’

Housing secretary reaffirms U.S. commitment to closing the racial homeownership gap at a forum with NAR president and top housing officials.

NAR: ‘Don’t panic, keep contracting’

The National Association of Realtors sends a message to members that it is working to ensure that the proposed Protecting the Right to Organize Act will not hurt their status as independent contractors.

Ending 1031s hurts land conservation, farmers

The land conservation and farming communities need to come together and let Congress know how vital the like-kind exchange is to the future of our land and that it must continue.

11 ways to win a bidding war

Local agents shared some of the tactics they use to help their clients win the house of their dreams.

Guaranteed Rate launches tech company

The new technology streamlines workflow in the mortgage industry.

How will the stimulus bill help real estate?

The stimulus bill includes aid for state and local governments, new homeowners, small businesses and renters.

When Fannie met Freddie

If Realtors, lenders and homebuyers are the stars of the real estate show, Fannie and Freddie are the unseen producers who bankroll the production from backstage.

Builder associations oppose carried interest tax reform

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) opposes the change because it would raise taxes on the multifamily housing industry and on real estate investment partnerships.

First American launches real estate podcast

The podcast, hosted by First American Chief Economist Mark Fleming and Deputy Chief Economist Odeta Kushi and available on major podcasting platforms, offers insight on housing, affordability and related economic topics.

Biden moves to reverse Trump housing policy

The order directs the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to reexamine Trump Administration changes to Obama-era fair housing rules.

New city portal tracks zoning appeals projects

It enables interested parties to conduct a quick search for all projects appealing a decision before the Zoning Board of Appeal.

DACA members now eligible for FHA loans

CBC Mortgage Agency, a nationally chartered finance agency, applauded the decision, noting in a press release that 85% of individuals in the DACA program are Hispanic and account for over a third of CBCMA borrowers.

Budget bill eases zoning restrictions to spur development

MAR also successfully urged Baker to veto “Right of First Refusal” portion of the bill, which would allow tenants of a building to have the first option to purchase the property.

Does your client know owning is cheaper than renting in most markets?

Here’s a little tidbit that might help clients decide whether or not it’s time to buy their first home — it could save them some money.

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