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Lighting sets the mood of any space. Whether you’re planning a quiet and romantic evening at home or brightening up your workspace, the right lighting makes a world of difference. One of the best ways to achieve the perfect atmosphere is by using layered lighting. Here’s how to easily add layered lighting to your home.

What’s there to love about a new construction home? More outlets, wireless internet (perfect for working from home), and improved security. Technology and increased safety make life so much easier in new homes today.

In this post, I shared my top tips for tackling the renovation of a smoker's house based on my experience as a real estate agent in Cabarrus County. From removing smelly furniture to treating walls and refurbishing floors, following these strategies can help transform a smoked-in home and successfully prepare it for sale.

In this post, I shared my story of finally admitting that I was experiencing burnout after over 20 years in real estate, and how making just one small change of disconnecting from devices for an hour each day helped me start feeling like myself again. By prioritizing even short periods of self-care, I've been able to better serve my clients and take my business to a new level.

In this blog post, I outline my simple yet effective 4 account system for organizing finances as a real estate agent, along with a formula for allocating commissions that has kept me stable for over 20 years. I also dive into important topics like taxes, spending discipline, and where to go for more advanced training.

In this post, I outlined the real causes driving the housing affordability crisis from an imbalanced supply and demand to overregulation and inflation. I also proposed some solutions like supporting smart growth, reducing red tape, and reining in money printing to restore stability in both home prices and rents.

By implementing a simple system of using colored paper for my real estate notes, I went from being disorganized and losing clients to providing a polished, professional experience for my buyers and sellers. My colored paper filing system saved my business by keeping my leads organized and following up on important calls and notes.

In this post, I brake down the five most important questions real estate agents should ask themselves when evaluating their brokerage fit, from goals and values to compensation, business model and relationship building needs. Consider where you may be lacking and whether a change could help you achieve more success in your business.

In my latest blog post, I share all my best tips for overcoming nerves and wowing clients with powerful listing presentations. From embracing the presenter mindset to joining Toastmasters for practice, you'll learn my tried and true methods for gaining confidence and booking more listings.

I've learned how important it is to effectively manage client emotions during stressful real estate transactions. In this blog post, I share my strategies for absorbing drama, diffusing blame, and helping clients stay focused on solutions to preserve their dreams of homeownership.

This simple yet deeply flavored gravy made from coffee, country ham drippings and a touch of sugar is a quintessential Southern side dish.

Addressing some misconceptions head-on by drawing on my first-hand knowledge working with homeowners across various property types.

Professionalism in real estate is something I'm very passionate about. As an industry leader, I've seen firsthand how appearances and behaviors impact both clients and an agent's career.

Reflecting on Senator Lauch Faircloth's wisdom, I INVITE you to embrace his guiding principles in your everyday life. You'll be amazed at the positive impact they can have!

While the NAR lawsuit judgment has stirred the real estate world, the industry is far from grinding to a halt. Real estate transactions will continue, and the role of REALTORS® in providing valuable guidance remains unchanged. Consumers should actively engage with their agents, and real estate professionals should focus on the value they bring to the table. The lawsuit is just one chapter in a continuously evolving industry, and both consumers and professionals need to stay engaged and informed.

It's that time of year again, and I'm here to help you make the most of your trip to Anaheim for NAR NXT, The REALTOR® Experience. Don't worry if you're not attending – these tips are great for any big trip! Let's banish the overwhelm and get you ready to conquer your packing list.

The May 2023 edition of "Insight: The Voice of Real Estate in North Carolina" magazine from NC REALTORS® is out now! This edition is packed with articles to help you personally and professionally, including tips on self-care and delegating tasks with virtual assistants. Don't miss out on this must-read edition!

Phil Chalmers, an upcoming Summer 2022 guest on my wildly fabulous Crazy Sh*t in Real Estate Podcast shares his 12 steps to be Proactive & Prepared: Real Estate Safety Plan.

In this episode of the Top of Mind podcast, Mike Simonsen sits down with storied real estate trainer and broker Leigh Brown to talk about the state of today’s real estate industry.

Think about why someone calls a Realtor®. They want someone else to be in charge, especially during a recession, when people might be going through a challenging situation or uncertain time. With your skills, network and knowledge, you have the unique ability to help them navigate the road ahead. How special is that?!