In today's market, does down payment assistance really help?
Opinion
What we really need is more housing — especially affordable housing. Prices are still going up, and soon, there won’t be any houses priced low enough to be affordable for people who are within the income limits that qualify them for financial help
by Teresa Boardman May 20
Sorting through pandemic predictions: What held true?
Opinion
With the pandemic winding down in most parts of the country, one broker-owner is looking back at some assumptions made about real estate last year. Which predictions were untrue, and which were right on the money?
by Teresa Boardman May 6
Fair Housing Month: How are you championing education?
Opinion
There are still enough days left in Fair Housing Month to put together a plan for how you are going to educate yourself and your clients. Here's how one broker-owner is joining the conversation about fair housing — and how you can, too
by Teresa Boardman Apr 22
5 common tech mistakes that could be costing you
When it comes to the technology that powers your business, it's all about what's new and next, but it's important to remember the basics to avoid common mistakes that could be costing you big time
by Teresa Boardman Apr 8
The 'my' agent: How this approach can hamper a transaction
Opinion
Work in real estate sales long enough, and you'll cross paths with a host of different personalities, both good and bad. But there's one type of agent this broker-owner struggles with — those who let transactions revolve entirely around them
by Teresa Boardman Mar 11
10 myths about baby boomers that could cost you business
Opinion
Baby boomers own a lot of real estate and, therefore, a lot of potential business. A broker of the generation offers some advice for agents looking to work with this cohort
by Teresa Boardman Mar 3
How to help cash-strapped buyers overcome financing hurdles
Opinion
For some homebuyers, down payment assistance can prove to be a game-changer. Here's why, at the very least, real estate agents should familiarize themselves with affordable financing options for purchasing a home
by Teresa Boardman Feb 11
Why 'higher' standard doesn't mean 'highest' standard
Opinion
Yes, the NAR Code of Ethics is a higher standard — but it isn’t the highest standard. Here's what one broker thinks about self-policing among Realtors and the consequences of ethics violations
by Teresa Boardman Jan 28
Today marks Day 300 of quarantine — and agents say the thrill is gone
Yep, Friday marks the 300th day of coronavirus lockdowns for millions of Americans. But while 2020 was prosperous for many, some agents long for a time when anxiety and virtual conferencing didn't rule the day
by Jim Dalrymple II Jan 8
What NAR can do better to support fair housing in 2021
Opinion
More education for members and changes to the code of ethics is certainly a great start, but there's more that can be done. Here, one broker weighs in on what NAR can do to prevent future discrimination and promote fair housing
by Teresa Boardman Dec 31
The lessons this broker learned and is taking into the new year
Opinion
A lot of changes took place in 2020, and many of us will likely reflect on them for years to come. Here are one broker's observations — the things she'll leave behind and the lessons she'll take with her into the new year
by Teresa Boardman Dec 17
Does NAR's fair housing simulation work?
Opinion
NAR's mythical town of Fairhaven is meant to shed a realistic light on discrimination in the industry. But how does it stack up against standard fair housing classes? Here's one broker's experience
by Teresa Boardman Dec 3
How one broker is approaching Thanksgiving this year
Opinion
With COVID-19 cases soaring, Teresa Boardman can't help but think of what's to come. Here's how the holiday season is going to be different this year
by Teresa Boardman Nov 19
Why Realtors should be fair housing ambassadors
Opinion
Realtors have a unique opportunity to become fair housing ambassadors who take the lead and promote fair housing in their communities and the industry at large
by Teresa Boardman Nov 5
What is it like to be a poll worker during a pandemic?
Opinion
There's a need for poll workers in many states. Here's why broker-owner Teresa Boardman volunteered, what it was like and why she'll do it again on Nov. 3 for the national election
by Teresa Boardman Oct 8