AdhiSchools Blog

How To Find Out Who Owns A Property

Unlocking Property Ownership

In the complex and rapidly evolving world of real estate, having the correct information at the right time can make all the difference. In our great real Read more...

In the complex and rapidly evolving world of real estate, having the correct information at the right time can make all the difference. In our great real estate business, if you are involved in the real estate sector, your role might be that of an agent

Real estate exam prep guide

Real estate exam pre course

What Is A Real Estate Exam Prep Course? A prep course for the real estate exam is an essential tool for any aspiring real estate agent. These courses provide comprehensive learning materials and resources Read more...

What Is A Real Estate Exam Prep Course? A prep course for the real estate exam is an essential tool for any aspiring real estate agent. These courses provide comprehensive learning materials and resources designed to prepare and ensure exam success. Often

Is there math on the real estate exam?

Real estate comprehensive guide

Unveiling the Math Aspect of the California Real Estate Exam: Is There a Lot of Math? The California Real Estate Exam is a formidable stepping stone for all those seeking to wear the hat of a Read more...

Unveiling the Math Aspect of the California Real Estate Exam: Is There a Lot of Math? The California Real Estate Exam is a formidable stepping stone for all those seeking to wear the hat of a licensed real estate professional in the Golden State. As part of their preparation, many potential test-takers ask, "Is there a lot of math on the California Real Estate Exam?" The question is an understandable one. Let's explore this question in detail, assessing the quantitative aspects and providing guidance on navigating this portion of the examination successfully. The Math Component of the California Real Estate Exam To put it in plain terms, yes, the California Real Estate Exam contains math - but very little. And the level of math involved may not be as extensive or intimidating as you might think. On average, there are only a small number of questions that focus on mathematical problems. These problems test your ability to perform real estate related calculations like computing real estate taxes, property values, commission rates, prorations, interest, mortgage payments, and depreciation. The Good News: It's Not Rocket Science! The type of math encountered on the California Real Estate Exam primarily involves basic arithmetic and some simple algebra, including the ability to work with fractions, decimals, and percentages. So, if you have been fretting over complicated equations, exhale a sigh of relief – calculus and advanced mathematics do not feature on this exam! And there isn’t a lot of it on the state test. Preparation is Key Even though the math portion of the exam only makes up a very small fraction of the total questions, it's essential not to take it lightly. As with any other exam section, diligent preparation is key to success. Many resources are available, including textbooks, our real estate exam prep, and practice problems, specifically designed to help candidates understand and master the types of math questions they encounter. A good starting point would be to familiarize yourself with real estate terminology and principles. Once you grasp these well, you can start working on the calculations. Solve many practice problems related to loan amortization, property valuation, real estate taxes, etc. Understand the formulas rather than just memorizing them. Knowing when and how to use them effectively will make all the difference on exam day. Remember, speed and accuracy are crucial for these exams. While you need to work quickly, double-checking your answers is equally important to avoid careless mistakes. Take a Crash Course A candidate preparing for the real estate test would significantly benefit from taking a crash course prior to their exam. The real estate field encompasses many complex topics, including property laws, contract laws, real estate principles and practices, ethics, and market dynamics. A crash course is an intensive, fast-paced program that condenses these vast subject matters into digestible chunks, ensuring the candidate comprehensively understands all the necessary information. Additionally, such a course often incorporates practice tests that mimic the actual exam's format and difficulty, providing the candidate with invaluable experience under realistic conditions. It also allows the candidate to pinpoint their strengths and weaknesses, allowing them to focus on areas that need improvement. Overall, a crash course fosters confidence, thoroughness, and strategic examination techniques, thereby improving the chances of success in the real estate exam. To sum it up, while the California Real Estate Exam does include math problems, they are relatively straightforward and can be tackled efficiently with consistent practice and understanding. Don't let the fear of math deter you from your goal. Remember, every licensed real estate agent in California has passed this test. With the right mindset, diligent preparation, and extra help, you will, too. The pathway to success on the California Real Estate Exam may require you to crunch some numbers, but the rewards of a career in real estate are certainly worth it. Math-related vocabulary for the state exam: Benchmark : A reference point used in surveying, marked on a fixed, stable object. Its position and elevation are known and utilized in tidal observations, land surveys, and other geodetic operations. Board Foot : A unit of measurement for lumber, signifying a volume equal to a one-foot cube of one inch thick wood. It's often used in the lumber industry to price and sell wood. Decimal : Related to the base-10 system. It signifies a number or fraction expressed in the decimal system. In a decimal number, such as 125.67, the decimal point (.) separates the whole number (125) from the decimal fraction (67). Denominator : The bottom number in a fraction, indicating the total number of equal parts that constitute the whole. For instance, in the fraction 3/5, '5' is the denominator, representing that the whole is divided into five parts. Fraction : A mathematical expression representing the division of two numbers or quantities. It's also used to describe a portion or segment of a whole. Front Foot : A real estate term, denoting a property's linear footage along the frontage (like a street or road). It can be used for pricing properties but needs to account for the property's depth. Governmental Survey System/Rectangular Survey System : A land division system used in the US. It divides land into 24-square-mile quadrangles using north-south and east-west lines. Latitude : The geographic coordinate representing the angular distance of a point north or south of the Earth's equator, measured in degrees along a meridian. Lineal Foot : Another term for a 'foot' in measurement, mainly used to measure the length of items. Longitude : The geographic coordinate that specifies the east-west position of a point on the Earth's surface. It's an angular measurement, usually expressed in degrees, minutes, and seconds. Lowest Common Denominator : The smallest multiple that is exactly divisible by every denominator of a set of fractions. It is used to simplify the process of adding, subtracting, and comparing fractions. Meridian : An imaginary line running from the North Pole to the South Pole on the Earth's surface. All locations along a given meridian share the same longitude. Numerator : The top number in a fraction, indicating the number of parts of the whole that are considered. For example, in the fraction 3/5, '3' is the numerator. Point of Beginning : The starting point in land surveying from which the boundaries of a parcel of land are described. This is most often associated with the “metes and bounds” method of land description. Product : The result obtained from the multiplication of two or more numbers. Range : In the U.S. public land surveying system, a 'range' refers to a vertical column of townships in a grid layout. It is six miles wide, running north to south, and is numbered based on its distance east or west from a specified meridian. Rounding : A mathematical process to approximate a number to its nearest whole number, tens, hundreds, etc. It simplifies numbers while still maintaining a reasonable level of accuracy. Running Foot : A measurement unit used in the lumber industry to measure the length of a piece of wood, irrespective of its width or thickness. Square Foot : A unit of area measurement equal to a square with sides each one foot long.

100% Commission Real Estate Brokerages: A Comprehensive Guide for New Agents

Real estate profession

Entering the world of real estate as a professional can be both exciting and daunting. The dynamic landscape offers numerous possibilities, but the thought of choosing a broker can be daunting. There Read more...

Entering the world of real estate as a professional can be both exciting and daunting. The dynamic landscape offers numerous possibilities, but the thought of choosing a broker can be daunting. There are so many choices out there ranging from a team structure, to an independent company or even a national franchise - there are no shortage of options. When it comes to commission splits, the 100% commission model stands out for its distinct structure and potential benefits among the available options. This model promises an attractive deal: the agent takes home their entire commission, hence the name '100% commission'. But like any other model, there are pros and cons. As many of our readers are either enrolled in real estate license school or considering enrolling in license school I wanted to explore the nuances of 100% commission brokerages and assess whether it's the right choice for new professionals aiming to make their mark in our great real estate business. In theory, a 100% commission brokerage allows agents to keep all their commission from a transaction. In other words, when an agent working under this model closes a deal, they retain the entire commission, hence the term '100% commission'. It’s important to read the fine print before joining such a company, however as sometimes “100%” isn’t really “100%”. Although some brokers may brand their compensation plans “100%” they can involve a nominal flat fee per transaction or a monthly or annual fee that the agent pays the brokerage rather than a commission percentage. This starkly contrasts the traditional brokerage model, where an agent's commission is split between the agent and the brokerage. In a traditional model, the split is often a fixed percentage. It may range from a 50/50 split to a 90/10 split, depending on the agent's experience level, the brokerage's policies, and market standards. In a traditional brokerage model, the agent could take home anywhere from 50% to 90% of the commission from a transaction. A simple example can illustrate the difference. If an agent closes a deal that generates a gross commission income (GCI) of $20,000 in a 100% commission model, the agent could keep the entire $20,000 (minus any flat fees or other costs associated with the brokerage). However, in a traditional 70/30 split model, the agent might take home let’s say $14,000, with the remaining $6,000 going to the brokerage. This might seem like a no-brainer for the agent, but like anything there are pros and cons for the real estate professional in an environment like this. The Downside of 100% Commission Brokerages While 100% commission brokerages have gained traction for their potential benefits, they're not without their pitfalls. It's crucial to weigh these cons against the pros when deciding whether this model is right for you. Here, we'll explore some potential downsides of working with a 100% commission brokerage. 1. Lack of Support One common criticism of 100% commission brokerages is the perceived lack of support. In traditional brokerages, part of the commission split often goes toward administrative support, training, and office resources. These brokerages might provide agents with access to a physical office, marketing materials, continued education, and more. In contrast, 100% commission brokerages typically operate on a leaner model, and you might find yourself largely on your own. 2. Hidden Costs While keeping 100% of your commission can sound appealing, it's crucial to remember that this figure might only account for some costs. Some 100% commission brokerages charge a transaction fee per sale or even recurring monthly or annual fees. You should also account for costs related to errors and omissions insurance, marketing materials, and other business-related expenses. Therefore, it's essential to factor these into your calculations when determining potential earnings. 3. Less Structured Environment The increased autonomy that comes with a 100% commission brokerage can be a double-edged sword. For some, this independence is liberating; for others, a less structured environment might lead to reduced motivation and productivity. Some agents may need the structure and community of a traditional office setting to stay focused and motivated. 4. Not Ideal for Newer Agents Although the flat-fee model can be attractive to new agents from a financial perspective, the lack of support and guidance can make it a challenging environment for those just starting out. New agents often benefit from mentorship, training, and hands-on support to help them navigate the industry's complexities after they pass the real estate exam. With these resources, newer agents may find it easier to succeed. 5. Misleading "100% Commission" Terminology Finally, it's worth noting that the term "100% commission" can be somewhat misleading. As noted earlier, this model's various fees and costs mean that agents rarely take home the full 100% of their commission. Understanding this can help manage expectations and make a more informed decision about whether this model is the right fit. While the 100% commission model can offer significant benefits, it's essential to consider its potential downsides. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the industry, understanding these cons will help you decide and choose a brokerage model that aligns with your career goals and working style. The Upside of 100% Commission Brokerages In the fast-evolving real estate landscape, alternative brokerage models have begun to challenge traditional business methods. Let's talk about the promising upside of this model, as it holds potential to revolutionize an agent's income and autonomy in their real estate journey. 1. Greater Income Potential The most obvious advantage of the 100% commission model is the potential for higher income. Agents can maximize their earnings from every transaction by keeping the entire commission minus a nominal flat fee. This approach can be incredibly lucrative for high-performing agents who complete many transactions. 2. Predictability and Transparency One of the often-overlooked benefits of the 100% commission model is its simplicity. With a fixed fee structure, agents know upfront what their expenses will be, making it easier to budget and plan for the future. This clear-cut approach provides a sense of predictability and transparency that can be comforting in an industry often characterized by uncertainty. 3. Flexibility and Control 100% commission brokerages give agents more autonomy and control over their business. This independence allows agents to be more innovative with their marketing strategies and business plans, adjusting as they see fit without additional brokerage interference. This flexibility can lead to more effective personal branding and, consequently, better business growth. 4. Competitive Service Offering Lastly, the 100% commission model allows agents to offer their clients competitive pricing in a crowded marketplace, possibly attracting more clients and driving more business. Is the 100% Commission Model Right for a Newer Real Estate Agent? Navigating the world of real estate can be complex for a novice agent, fresh from our real estate school. For new real estate professionals, the 100% commission model might seem appealing on the surface, but it's essential to understand what this model entails and if it truly aligns with your needs and career goals. As mentioned earlier, 100% commission brokerages offer the allure of significant earning potential, allowing agents to retain the majority, if not all, of their commission. This can be especially enticing for those who are just starting and are keen on maximizing their income. However, the primary challenge for newer agents under this model is more support and mentorship. Traditional brokerages often provide comprehensive training and resources that are beneficial for agents building their skills after passing the real estate exam. These resources can include hands-on training, marketing assistance, and access to experienced agents who can provide guidance and advice. The absence of these support structures in many 100% commission brokerages can make the initial stages of a real estate career more challenging for newer agents. Furthermore, while the potential to earn 100% commission can be attractive, new agents need to remember that various expenses, such as transaction fees, marketing costs, and insurance often offset this. These expenses can add up and put financial pressure on agents, particularly those who are still trying to establish themselves in the industry and secure consistent transactions. There is also the aspect of self-discipline and motivation. The high level of autonomy in a 100% commission model requires a substantial amount of self-direction. With the structured environment provided by traditional brokerages, some new agents might be able to maintain their momentum, especially during challenging periods. So while the 100% commission model can offer greater income potential, it comes with challenges that may prove difficult for newer agents to navigate. It's vital for new agents to consider these factors and seek out a mentor or network of experienced agents for guidance. As with any career decision, it's all about finding the right fit for your goals, working style, and needs. Becoming a real estate professional is filled with many decisions, and choosing the right brokerage model is an important decision. It's critical to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution - each model has its own unique characteristics and considerations. The 100% commission model, with its allure of potentially higher earnings and autonomy, is no exception. It offers numerous advantages, including greater income potential, predictable and transparent fee structures, and more control over one's business. These benefits can be particularly appealing for seasoned agents with a solid client base and comfortable navigating the industry independently. For them, this model can be a financially rewarding alternative to the traditional commission split model. As discussed, this model also has its challenges. The often-overlooked costs and the absence of supportive resources can pose hurdles, particularly for newer agents just starting their journey after real estate school. The lack of structured environment poses a challenge to maintaining motivation and discipline, crucial components for success in this industry. Moreover, the decision should not be based solely on financial considerations. Agents, particularly those new to the industry, should also consider the level of support, mentorship, and resources they may need as they build their skills and client base. In this aspect, the traditional brokerage model with its training programs and support structures can often be more suitable for newly minted agents aiming to make their mark in the industry. Ultimately, whether the 100% commission model is the right fit will depend on the individual agent's career goals, personal work style, and needs. It's critical to weigh the potential income benefits against the need for support, training, and resources. Agents considering this model should fully understand what it entails, assess their own needs and abilities, and seek advice from experienced professionals in the industry. This decision marks one of the many milestones in the exciting journey of becoming a real estate professional. Choose wisely, as the right brokerage can pave the way for a rewarding and successful career in real estate - or not. As always, if you are considering taking real estate license courses with us, visit www.adhischools.com or call us at 888-768-5285. Love, Kartik

U.S. Housing Market Trends: High Mortgage Rates, Low Inventory, and Opportunities for Real Estate Professionals

US housing market

A question a have been getting regularly lately is “If interest rates are so high, why aren’t prices coming down?!” I get this question from students in our real estate license school as well as Read more...

A question a have been getting regularly lately is “If interest rates are so high, why aren’t prices coming down?!” I get this question from students in our real estate license school as well as from past and potential clients. This is a totally understandable question to ask, especially given the fact that interest rates have more than doubled in the past few years. The real estate market is experiencing high mortgage rates and an unprecedented housing inventory shortage - the market seems to be at a stalemate. This isn’t just true in southern California where we operate a real estate school and provide real estate crash courses to prepare folks for the real estate exam - this story is true all across the United States. The reality is that most U.S. homeowners remain tethered to their current homes due to significantly lower mortgage rates locked in over previous years. A recent analysis by Redfin revealed that nearly 92 percent of homeowners with mortgages have an interest rate below 6%, much lower than the current average mortgage rate of 6.71%. "Why would I want to sell my house when I have a really low 3% interest rate on my mortgage? If I buy a new house, I might end up with an interest rate that could be twice as high as my current one!” is the sentiment of many. As a consequence, the lack of available homes for sale has led to the housing market entering a very odd place, as noted by Redfin's Deputy Chief Economist, Taylor Marr. The reluctance from homeowners to list their properties, fostered by the significantly higher current mortgage rates, is stagnating the market, making it difficult for buyers to find suitable properties. There just isn’t enough inventory. A bit of bright news for the market is that the Federal Reserve in its most recent meeting opted against an 11th consecutive interest rate increase, which signaled a "hawkish pause" as it evaluates the impact of the previous rate hikes. However, the Fed indicated the likelihood of two more quarter percentage point increases by the end of the year, pushing the median expectation to a funds rate (not mortgage rate) of 5.6% by the end of 2023. The pause in interest rate hikes is intended to allow the Fed to monitor the impacts of its policy moves as it battles uneven but optimistic signs of inflation being under control. The decision resulted from various factors, including solid labor market performance and, as previously mentioned, slowing inflation rates. The future outlook suggests the possibility of rate cuts beginning in 2024, with raised expectations for economic growth and an optimistic outlook on unemployment rates. The inflation projections were also adjusted, but the overall impacts of the policy adjustments are yet to be fully realized in the economy. It has been said that an economy as large as the United States’ is like turning an aircraft carrier. To move in another direction requires turning the wheel miles and miles ahead of time. On a national level, regions where the inventory shortage is particularly acute include Hartford, Connecticut, and Buffalo, New York. Housing inventory hovers near record lows in these markets, where new construction is scarce. Hartford had just 1.4 months of housing supply in December, while in the past, a balanced housing market was considered to have between four and six months of supply. "Months of housing supply" is a metric often used by real estate professionals to measure the balance between supply and demand in the housing market. It's calculated by taking the current inventory of homes for sale and dividing it by the current sales rate (the number of homes sold per month). In this context, if Hartford has 1.4 months of housing supply, it means that at the current sales pace, all the homes currently listed for sale would be sold in approximately 1.4 months, assuming no new homes are listed. On the other hand, a balanced housing market is typically said to have between four and six months of supply. This means that it would take four to six months to sell all the homes currently on the market at the current sales pace. If the months of supply are less than this (like 1.4 months in Hartford's case), it generally indicates a seller's market because demand is outpacing supply. If it's more, it could be a buyer's market because supply exceeds demand. Therefore, Hartford's low 'months of housing supply' indicates a significant shortage of homes for sale compared to the number of interested buyers, leading to increased competition among buyers and potentially higher home prices. It’s the same story around much of the United States as low inventory continues to squeeze the housing markets all across the country. California is no exception. In addition to high mortgage rates, other factors contributing to low inventory include older Americans opting to age in place, investors purchasing homes for renting purposes, and the lack of new construction. Buyers priced out of major markets are relocating to smaller cities, creating demand in areas traditionally not associated with a housing crunch. This leads to emotionally charged house-hunting experiences, buyers are left with few options and the prospect of waiting long periods to find their dream home. Meanwhile, investor activity is also altering the market dynamics, with the proportion of single-family homes purchased by investors increasing from 15-16% each year from 2012 to 24% in 2021 Cities such as Austin, Nashville, and Dallas, which experienced bidding wars and price hikes in recent years due to low inventory, are now seeing a leveling off of prices due to increased available homes. The U.S. housing market currently presents a bittersweet scenario. With homeowners holding on to their homes and the housing inventory at record lows, it's a challenging time for those looking to enter or navigate the market. As things stand, the market remains skewed, favoring neither buyer nor seller, and it's a situation that appears likely to stay the same in the immediate future. It's essential to understand that such fluctuations and shifts present unique opportunities for those interested in the world of real estate. Yes, mortgage rates are high, and inventory is low, but this only increases the need for competent, understanding, and proactive real estate professionals who can navigate this challenging terrain. Obtaining a real estate license isn't just about selling homes; it's about understanding market dynamics, providing sound advice, and adapting to changing circumstances. This unique state of the market offers a wealth of learning experiences and the potential for lucrative returns. Moreover, as the market stabilizes and evolves, there will be a strong demand for qualified professionals to guide clients through their real estate journey. Remember, every market condition brings its own advantages and opportunities – the key lies in being prepared and willing to leverage them effectively. So, don't be discouraged. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and become a valuable player in the real estate industry. Love, Kartik TLDR: The U.S. housing market is currently experiencing a unique state characterized by high mortgage rates and an unprecedented low inventory, leading to a market stalemate with homeowners reluctant to sell due to lower locked-in mortgage rates. However, the market's fluctuations are seen as opportunities for competent real estate professionals to navigate these challenges, understand market dynamics, and leverage changing circumstances to their advantage.

The Role of Unlicensed Assistants in Real Estate Industry

Img mail 3 01

The real estate industry offers a wide range of career opportunities. Many roles within our great industry will require you to get a real estate license and pass the real estate exam, but some still need Read more...

The real estate industry offers a wide range of career opportunities. Many roles within our great industry will require you to get a real estate license and pass the real estate exam, but some still need to

Jumpstart Your Real Estate Career: Find Your First Clients in 90 Days

Start New Career

The beginning of any career is crucial, but this is especially true for real estate agents. A strong start sets the stage for long-term success, establishing Read more...

The beginning of any career is crucial, but this is especially true for real estate agents. A strong start sets the stage for long-term success, establishing credibility and building momentum.

7 Compelling Reasons to Launch Your Real Estate Career Today

Img 5 01

The real estate industry plays a pivotal role in today's economy, driving the growth and stability of communities all across California and the United States. Read more...

The real estate industry plays a pivotal role in today's economy, driving the growth and stability of communities all across California and the United States. The real estate industry is a big part of our e

How To Buy A Foreclosed Home

Img 4 01

A foreclosed home is a property repossessed by a lender, typically a bank, due to the homeowner's inability to meet their mortgage obligations. When a borrower fails to make timely mortgage payments, Read more...

A foreclosed home is a property repossessed by a lender, typically a bank, due to the homeowner's inability to meet their mortgage obligations. When a borrower fails to make timely mortgage payments, the le

Compelling Reasons for Your Client to List Their Home During the Holiday Season

Festive season

The holiday season might not seem ideal for your client to sell a home (or for you to take a listing, for that matter), but there are numerous advantages to listing a property during this festive time Read more...

The holiday season might not seem ideal for your client to sell a home (or for you to take a listing, for that matter), but there are numerous advantages to listing a property during this festive time of year. While this isn't a specific topic in real estate school nor discussed on the California real estate exam, I'd like to give you several convincing reasons why doing business during the holiday season is a wise decision. For some real estate agents, December can be a “slower month,” but it doesn’t have to be. Plenty of listings and sales can be had if you don’t “check out” of the business mentally. One other thing to keep in mind, as a real estate professional, there is a 30-60 day lag on income compared to activity. This means that if you don’t sell anything in December, it will reflect poorly on your income from January through March. Similarly, if you struggle financially in December, this is a consequence of your activities in September and October. Serious Buyers and Higher-Quality Showings Happen Over the Holidays To start, people searching for homes during the holiday season are typically serious buyers with a specific need to purchase a property and likely quickly. You should have higher-quality showings and more motivated buyers interested in your listing. Logically, a buyer not genuinely interested in buying a property is unlikely to spend time touring various homes during the holidays with a buyer's agent. Therefore, when you put a house on the market during the holiday season, you can have a higher degree of confidence that potential buyers viewing your property are genuinely serious about making a purchase. Less Competition and Higher Sale Prices Less competition from other sellers typically means a higher sale price for your listing. Because inventory levels tend to be slightly lower during the holiday season, serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from, which means less competition for your listing. This can translate into a higher sale price, as your home will stand out among the limited options available. Homes Show Better with Holiday Decorations Houses also show better when decorated for the holidays. By working with your seller to tastefully adorn your listing, you can create an emotional connection with potential buyers, who will more easily envision themselves celebrating future holidays in your space. This might also mean you’ll have some passionate buyers willing to pay your price. Don’t be afraid to tug on the heartstrings of buyers walking through your open house around the holiday time - bake aromatic cookies in the oven or light that special holiday candle. Love does enter through the nose, after all! Buyers Have More Time to House Hunt Remember that there are other reasons why selling real estate during the holidays is better than any other time of the year. During the holiday season, many buyers have additional time off work, allowing them more opportunities to search for their perfect home, which could increase the number of showings your listing gets. It's often easier for a buyer to sneak out of work during the holidays to go see your listing than at other busier times of the year. Tax Advantages for Buyers Also, some buyers need to purchase before the end of the year for tax reasons, making them more motivated to close on a property quickly. The reason is that buying a property before the end of the year can allow buyers to claim certain tax deductions in the current tax year. For example, mortgage interest, property taxes, and points paid on a mortgage may all be deductible expenses. Buyers can maximize these deductions and reduce their overall tax liability by closing on a property before the year-end. Of course - tell your buyers to consult with their tax advisors to be sure. Possible Tax Credits for First-Time Homebuyers Tax Credits: Some jurisdictions offer tax credits to first-time homebuyers or buyers who purchase energy-efficient properties. Closing on a property before the end of the year may allow buyers to claim these credits in their current tax return, which may result in a lower tax bill or a larger refund. Capture the Relocating Employee Market January is a popular month for employees starting new jobs. Transferees often can't wait until spring to buy, so listing during the holiday season ensures your home is available to this motivated market segment. Still Maintain Control Over Showings While your home is on the market during the holiday season, you can still restrict showings during specific days to maintain your family's privacy and enjoy the festivities. Communicate with your real estate agent about your preferred showing schedule, and they can work with potential buyers to accommodate your needs while ensuring maximum exposure for your property. Maximize Buying Power in Spring Selling your home during the holiday season can position you as a non-contingent buyer in the spring when more houses are available at potentially lower prices. This strategy may allow your client to sell high and buy low, maximizing their buying power. Faster Closing Process Since the holiday season is typically a slower period for real estate transactions, lenders and other professionals involved in the closing process may have more availability. This can lead to a smoother and faster closing process, allowing your client to move into their new home sooner. Enhanced Online Visibility With the growing importance of online listings and virtual tours, especially during the holiday season, homes listed during this period can benefit from enhanced online visibility. Buyers are more likely to search for properties online during the holidays. A well-presented listing with professional photos and virtual tours can make a strong impression on potential buyers. Taking a listing during the holiday season may seem unconventional, but the numerous benefits – including serious buyers, less competition, tax advantages, and more – make it an attractive option. You may have already completed our real estate school and passed the California real estate exam, now you need to be well-equipped to navigate the holiday market and achieve the best possible outcome for your seller. So, instead of waiting for the spring season, consider taking advantage of these compelling reasons to list your client's home during the holiday season and make it a win-win situation for everyone involved. PS - Keep working through the holidays! Your February self will thank you for it! As always, if you are interested in taking real estate classes, visit www.adhischools.com Love, Kartik