Arguably the most critical step when it comes to selling your home is setting an accurate and appropriate price. The same goes for buying a house. It is very important that you understand what a fair price is for the property you are potentially buying.  REALTORS® offer much value in helping both home buyers and home sellers calculate and consider pricing. Here are three things that influence the price of a home. Age & Condition of the Home These factors are imperative when it comes to determining the future cost of ownership. In terms of maintenance, older homes could require more ..read more

As we celebrate Women's History Month, it's important to acknowledge the immense contributions women have made to the real estate industry. From pioneering agents to influential brokers, women have played a vital role in shaping the real estate landscape . Here are some key moments and figures in real estate that were made possible and created by women. Elizabeth J. McCormick In 1903, Elizabeth J. McCormick became the first woman to earn a real estate license in the United States. She went on to establish the Women's Real Estate Association of Chicago, which aimed to support and empower wome ..read more

Real estate is a traditionally male-dominated industry, with women making up only a small percentage of real estate professionals. However, the tide is turning, and more and more women are entering the field and making a name for themselves. However, women still face unique challenges in the real estate world. Let’s take a closer look at some ways to support women in real estate. Encourage Mentorship and Networking Opportunities Mentorship and networking are crucial to success in the real estate industry. Encouraging women to seek out mentors and build professional relationships can provide ..read more

Look before you leap. Kick the tires. There are a number of euphemisms for gathering as much information as you can before you act. The greater the risk, the larger the investment, and obviously the more time and effort you should spend making sure you understand the context and content of your decision. For most people, the largest purchase they will ever make will be their home. This is why home inspections are so important.  Home inspections are an essential and critical element in the home-buying process. The things that can be discovered can save you a lot of time and money in the ..read more

NAR's Triple Crown and President's Cup Awards Announced The Louisiana Realtors® has received the NAR Triple Crown Award and President's Cup Award for their 2022 fundraising and participation efforts. LR® was recognized for achieving its 2022 Realtors® Political Action Committee fundraising, participation, major investor and President’s Circle member goals. Louisiana was 1 of 18 states to receive both awards for their efforts in 2022. In addition, 4 Louisiana local associations received NAR’s Triple Crown Award and the President’s Cup Award for 2022 RPAC fundraising and advocacy efforts. To ..read more

Did you know that the homeownership rate for Black Americans is 43%? The national average is 65%, and the disparity in these numbers can be corrected. REALTORS® have a unique opportunity to play a role in shaping the communities. This February, during Black History Month, is a chance to reflect on the contributions and achievements of African Americans, past and present, and to consider how we can help create more inclusive and equitable communities. The history of African Americans in this country is one of resilience, perseverance, and overcoming great odds. From slavery to the civil right ..read more

Senate Insurance Com. Chairman Kirk Talbot joined the Louisiana REALTORS® this week to talk about the special session and how it will affect Property Insurance in the state of Louisiana.  You can view the recording below ..read more

Navigating and negotiating a real estate transaction can be a complex and challenging endeavor. No two deals are the same and with an endless array of variables that can influence a sale or purchase at any time, you have to be agile and ready for anything. Because of the nature of your business as a REALTOR®, the sharper your problem-solving skills are, the better you can serve your clients and find success. Here are a few ways you can enhance and improve your problem-solving skills. Focus on Finding a Solution, Not the Problem You feed negativity when you focus on the problem instead of fin ..read more

As a REALTOR® you have a very important responsibility to work and act in the best interest of your client. Whether they are buying a house or selling their home, it is your responsibility to ethically get them the very best result possible. Achieving these results stems from clear communication, due diligence, hard work, and ultimately skillful negotiation. When you arrive at the closing table, your client should rest assured that the check they’re writing, or the check they’re receiving, is the outcome of a well-negotiated deal . Here are a few tips and tactics that help you excel when it c ..read more

Provide Your Input on Mandatory LREC Forms Louisiana REALTORS® and the Louisiana Real Estate Commission (LREC) will once again convene a joint workgroup to review the Residential Agreement to Buy or Sell and the Residential Property Disclosure forms . The Joint Louisiana Real Estate Commission and Louisiana REALTORS® Forms Workgroup consists of REALTORS® and real estate licensees who are active in the industry, title attorneys, and educators and meets every other year to discuss any necessary changes for these forms. Brokers and agents can submit their feedback about these documents by filli ..read more