Contributors

The ‘end-to-end’ title tech system has given way to something better

Not long ago, many technology vendors were selling title professionals on a fairly simple idea: one platform, one vendor, every step of the workflow covered. It was an appealing proposition, and a number of providers invested heavily in trying to deliver on it. In fact, some still are. The concept made sense on its face. […]

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The overlooked notarizations quietly slowing mortgage workflows

Lenders have made meaningful progress in modernizing the closing process. eSignatures, hybrid eClosings, and remote online notarization have reduced friction at the signing table and improved the borrower experience where it is most visible.  That focus has paid off; digital closings move faster, require fewer manual corrections, and are easier to manage at scale than

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AI can accelerate real estate transactions — But it can’t replace the professional work that protects property rights

Artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every corner of the housing industry. Real estate professionals are using AI tools to streamline workflows, improve document processing and enhance compliance processes. The title industry is no exception. Title companies across the country are investing heavily in automation, analytics and digital tools to make transactions more efficient. These technologies

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The case for seller choice: Why exposure is a strategy and not a setting

Gary Keller is one of the most consequential figures in the history of residential real estate. In nearly five decades, few people have done more to educate, elevate and safeguard the well-being of the real estate professional. I say this as a 36-year veteran of this business and as someone who spent six years working

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Did the industry build a machine for reverse steering and call it seller choice?

Five major deals in five days. That’s what happened last week in real estate, and I don’t think anyone has fully processed what just happened. Zillow Preview signed almost 30 brokerages. eXp signed deals with Realtor.com, Homes.com and ComeHome.com. Compass already had its Redfin partnership locked in. Zillow rewrote its listing standards to make the

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Insurance is having a growing impact on condo affordability

On Wednesday, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac adopted extensive changes to their requirements for approvals of condominium projects that are eligible for their loan purchase.  The changes created more flexibility and affordability with respect to replacement cost and deductible requirements for condo insurance– but took a step backward by ending authority for what are called

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When comps are scarce, here’s how to price and market a listing

Pricing a home is always a unique challenge for real estate agents, but it can be especially daunting in a low-turnover market. The current real estate turnover rate, or the rate at which homes change hands, is at its lowest rate in 30 years, according to a Redfin analysis. One of the main reasons is

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The power of leading with influence in real estate sales

One truth stands clear: real estate sales are built on trust, not persuasion. Yet, many agents still wrestle with outdated sales tactics, focusing on pushing products rather than understanding client needs. The most successful agents, however, don’t sell at all. Instead, they lead with influence and trust, employing a methodology that empowers clients, builds lasting

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Real estate agents: The pricing conversation has changed — have you?

Here’s a truth that’s going to sting a little: if you’re still walking into listing appointments armed with the same pricing presentation you used in 2021, you’re bringing a butter knife to a sword fight. The market has fundamentally shifted, and the agents who haven’t shifted with it are watching listings expire, price reductions pile

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What a visit to NAR revealed about leadership change

I’ll be honest with you — I’m not always the most charitable voice when it comes to the National Association of Realtors. Those of you who follow me know I say what’s on my mind, and for a while, my mind hasn’t been particularly generous toward NAR leadership. So, when I received an invitation to

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