WestWords - August 2024

WESTWORDS AUGUST 2024

I AM WEST USA

TOM WOLF ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE KEY ACTIVITIES FOR REAL ESTATE AGENTS FROM BROKER DEAN BECKER

SOCIAL MEDIA PROMPTS

FOR THE YEAR FROM KEITH FLYNN

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HVAC REPLACEMENT & REPAIR PART 2 FROM AMERICAN HOME SHIELD

JULY

MARKET STATS

BACK TO SCHOOL WEST USA CARES

AUGUST CALENDAR

I AM

TO M WO LF WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING...

I had a great experience working with Tom Wolf.

The experience of finding a space was initially very overwhelming. However when speaking with Tom, he made the process simple and easy. I was able to ask any questions, share my idea of what I wanted in a space, and in a short amount of time I found my office. As a small business owner, I am grateful for the individualized attention and support I received working with Tom. I am so excited for my new journey in the office space I was able to find with Tom's guidance.

Axel and Tom were able to find me a new office space that was less than half the price of my previous office space and full service as well! I love my new location and recommend Axel and Tom wholeheartedly.

Tom is an amazing real estate agent and an awesome person to work with. He is flexible, realistic and truly puts the best interests of his clients ahead of his own.

He has a calm demeanor, is practical in his advice and extremely knowledgeable. The single most professional aspect we gained from working with Tom was his honesty in showing us properties. He frequently pointed out deficiencies we may have missed or trivialized making sure we had all the information needed to make a big financial decision.

CLIENT-FOCUSED • RELENTLESS • PROCESS-DRIVEN • EMPATHETIC • MENTOR

8 YEARS

BROKER BLOG FROM DEAN BECKER ENHANCING KNOWLEDGE: KEY ACTIVITIES FOR REAL ESTATE AGENTS In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of real estate, staying informed and knowledgeable is crucial for success.

Here are several key activities real estate agents can engage in to boost their expertise and remain competitive: 1. CONTINUING EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS & MEETINGS Enrolling in courses and obtaining certifications can significantly enhance an agent's skill set. Many institutions offer specialized programs in areas such as real estate law, property management, and commercial real estate. Designations like Certified Residential Specialist (CRS) or Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR) can provide agents with advanced knowledge and credibility. Regularly attending Office Meetings will keep you up to date on latest happenings in your area.

2. MARKET RESEARCH & ANALYSIS Regularly analyzing market trends and data is essential. Agents should study local market reports, track housing prices, and keep an eye on economic indicators that affect real estate. Utilizing tools like the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and staying updated with real estate news can help agents provide accurate and timely advice to clients.

3. NETWORKING & PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS Joining professional associations such as the National Association of Realtors (NAR) or local real estate boards can offer numerous learning opportunities. Attending conferences, seminars, and workshops allows agents to network with peers, learn from industry leaders, and stay abreast of new developments in the field.

4. TECHNOLOGY & TOOLS TRAINING The real estate industry increasingly relies on technology for marketing, customer relationship management, and virtual property tours. Agents should familiarize themselves with the latest software, apps, and digital tools. Participating in webinars or training sessions on new technology can improve efficiency and client service.

5. MENTORSHIP & PEER LEARNING Learning from experienced colleagues or mentors can provide invaluable insights. New agents should seek out mentorship programs or informal guidance from seasoned professionals. Participating in peer group discussions and sharing experiences can also foster a deeper understanding of practical challenges and solutions in real estate.

6. READING & SUBSCRIBING TO PUBLICATIONS Staying current with industry publications, blogs, and books is another effective way to expand knowledge.

Subscribing to real estate magazines, following bloggers, and reading books by industry experts can provide fresh perspectives and innovative ideas.

7. CLIENT FEEDBACK & CASE STUDIES Analyzing past transactions and soliciting feedback from clients can help agents identify areas for improvement. Studying case studies of successful and challenging deals can offer lessons in negotiation, client management, and problem-solving.

By engaging in these activities, real estate agents can continually enhance their knowledge, adapt to market changes, and provide exceptional service to their clients. Continuous learning is not just beneficial but essential for long-term success in the dynamic real estate industry.

QUESTIONS, CONTACT:

Managing Broker, Dean Becker | 602.942.4200

SOCIAL MEDIA PROMPTS

FOR THE YEAR

BY KEITH FLYNN

These prompts can encourage engagement, spark conversations, and provide valuable insights to real estate agents and their clients.

JANUARY New Year’s Resolution Homes: “Share your top real estate goals for the new year. How can I assist you in achieving them?”

JULY Vacation Home Dreams: “Tell me about your dream vacation home.

I’ll help you turn that dream into a reality.”

FEBRUARY Valentine’s Day Listings: “What features do you love most about your current home, and what are you looking for in your dream home?”

AUGUST Back-to-School House Hunt: “What are your criteria for finding the perfect family home before the school year starts?”

MARCH Spring Cleaning and Selling: “What are your best tips for preparing a home for sale this spring?”

APRIL Tax Season Real Estate Insights: “How can strategic real estate investments benefit your tax planning? Ask me for advice!”

SEPTEMBER Fall Market Forecast: “What do you predict for the real estate market this fall? Let’s analyze the trends together.”

OCTOBER Spooky Listings Challenge: “Share your favorite haunted house stories or explore unique listings with a spooky twist.”

MAY Outdoor Living Spaces: “Describe your ideal outdoor living space. I can help you find homes that match your vision!”

NOVEMBER Gratitude and Real Estate: “What are you most thankful for in your real estate journey? Let’s celebrate your milestones!”

JUNE Summer Moving Tips: “What are your must-haves for a seamless summer move? Let’s discuss!”

DECEMBER Holiday Home Wishlist: “Create your holiday home wishlist. I’ll help you find properties that match your desires.”

QUESTIONS, CONTACT:

Director of Digital Media, Keith Flynn | 602.942.4200

PART 2

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HVAC REPLACEMENT & REPAIR Moving on to part 2 of everything you need to know about HVAC replacement & repair.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A NEW HVAC UNIT With so many options out there, deciding home professionally evaluated. Make sure high the ceilings are, and what your desired indoor temperature is. Most homes will need which unit to purchase can be overwhelming. your contractor performs a load calculation, Here are some important considerations: which takes into account the size of your a new HVAC unit sized around 20 BTUs per square foot. house, the climate, the roof material, the Use the right professional contractor. Your orientation of the unit, the number of units, new HVAC unit’s efficiency can be determined Don’t ignore the SEER rating. The higher by its installation, so it’s imperative that you and more. An HVAC installation professional the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) will consider factors like whether or not your rating, the more efficient the unit. Although a work with a reputable contractor. Interview home has a crawlspace or basement, how several candidates and get detailed quotes unit with a higher SEER rating may be more much insulation there is in the attic, how many expensive, it could end up saving you more from each. floors it has, the number of people living there, money in the long run.

Determine the correct unit size. The best way what kind of doors and windows it has, how to get an accurate size estimate is to have your

HOW TO SAVE MONEY ON A NEW HEATING UNIT OR AIR CONDITIONER If you expect to have a tax bill for 2023, it might be a good year to get an A/C replacement, especially if your unit is on its last leg anyway.

Air conditioner units labeled ENERGY STAR Most Efficient meet the requirements for the tax credit. You need to get either a split or packaged system that meets specific energy

efficiency requirements. For a split system, To further offset some of your HVAC you would need a SEER rating of 16 or higher replacement costs, there are often residential or an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) rating efficiency tax credits and rebates available on equal to 13 or higher. For a package system, the state level. You also may be able to get you would need a SEER rating of 14 or higher money back for your installation of a new A/C and an EER rating of 12 or higher. You can or heating unit in the form of a rebate from also get federal tax credits for high-efficiency your local utility company. heating units, heat pumps, boilers, and biomass stoves.

IS IT CHEAPER TO REPLACE THE HEATING UNIT AND A/C TOGETHER?

WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND AFTER THE HVAC REPLACEMENT

Heating units usually last longer than air conditioners— the average A/C unit lasts 10 to 15 years, while the average heating unit lasts 15 to 20 years—so one might wear down sooner than the other. If your heating unit still has plenty of life left when your A/C needs replacing, consider keeping it for a while.

Nothing says “investment” like a home system that you paid a pretty penny for. Unfortunately, regardless of how much you end up spending on your HVAC replacement, it can still have some hiccups in performance every once in a while. When you’re looking for the best home warranty for HVAC coverage, look no further.

Replacing both a heating unit and an A/C together will cost more than just the cost to replace the A/C unit itself. But, if you do have the budget to replace both, you could save the headache of unmatched systems. If you’re installing a new, high-efficiency A/C, it’s a good idea to pair it with a highefficiency heating unit.

An American Home Shield home warranty plan protects your budget when your HVAC gives you trouble from normal wear and tear—no matter its age. Your HVAC system will be covered because each of our home service plans includes air conditioning warranties and home heating warranties.

If the covered problem can’t be repaired, we’ll replace your HVAC unit, subject to contract limitations and exclusions.

Derek Riley, Market Manager 480-286-1996 • derek.riley@ahs.com

TODD MENARD'S MARKET STATS JULY 2024

MARKET STATISTICS

DRIVE

Thank You FOR YOUR DONATIONS

M O N DAY

T U E S DAY

W E D N E S DAY

AUGUST 2024

T H U R S DAY

F R I DAY

01

10:00am - 11:00am @ Arrowhead Office Arrowhead Office Meeting

02

2:00pm - 4:00pm @ North PHX Office Monthly Meet Up

10:00am - 1:00pm @ Scottsdale Office LIVE CE CLASS: Elevating Professionalism in a Changing Industry (3Hrs Commissioner Standards) 1:00pm - 2:00pm / Zoom New BBA & New BBA To Show

9:00am - 10:00am / Webinar West USA Weekly Podcast

05

10:30am - 12:00pm / Zoom West USA Agent Orientation

9:00am - 3:00pm / Zoom REACT

06

10:00am - 11:30am @ Surprise Office Surprise Office Meeting

3:30am - 4:30pm @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Office Accountability

9:00am - 10:00am / Webinar West USA Weekly Podcast

12

3:30am - 4:30pm @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Office Accountability

07

9:00am - 12:00pm / Zoom FREE REMOTE CE CLASS: To Be Or Not To Be Paid, That is the Question (3Hrs Contract Law) 1:00pm - 3:00pm @ Chandler Office iFound Agent Class

13 10:00am - 1:00pm @ Mesa Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS:Duties to Clients and Customers (3Hrs Commissioner Standards)

14

9:00am - 12:00pm / Zoom FREE REMOTE CE CLASS: Disclosure and the Law (3Hrs Disclosure Law)

10:00am - 11:30am @ Scottsdale Office Google Business Profile

10:00am - 11:30am @ Scottsdale Office Scottsdale Office Meeting

10:00am - 11:00am @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Office Meeting

10:00am - 11:30am @ Surprise Office ARMLS - RapidStats Training with Windy Ogba

1:00pm - 4:00pm @ Chandler Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS: FHA & VA Loans: What Agents Need to Know (3Hrs Legal Issues)

19

20

3:30am - 4:30pm @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Office Accountability

10:00am - 1:00pm @ Surprise Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS: Advanced Contract Writing - MHCA Mobile & Manufactured Home Contract (3Hrs Contract Law)

9:00am - 10:00am / Webinar West USA Weekly Podcast

9:00am - 3:00pm / Zoom REACT

08

9:00am - 3:00pm / Zoom REACT 10:00am - 12:00pm @ Chandler Office Real Estate Wealth Manager Academy Event

10:00am - 11:00am / Zoom Coaching Essentials

09

1:00pm - 2:00pm / Zoom New ER and Seller Compensation Addendum

10:00am - 11:30am @ Ahwatukee Office Ahwatukee Office Meeting 1:00pm - 4:00pm @ Scottsdale Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS: Navigating Divorce, Property, and Financing (3Hrs Disclosure Law)

15

10:00am - 11:00am @ Surprise Office Coffee with Justin

1:00pm - 2:00pm / Zoom Broker Round Table

16

1:00pm - 3:00pm @ Scottsdale Office Using the New AAR Settlement Forms

21

9:00am - 12:00pm / Zoom FREE REMOTE CE CLASS: Secrets to Unprecedented Growth & Referrals (3Hrs RE Legal Issues)

10:00am - 1:00pm @ Scottsdale Office LIVE CE CLASS: Understanding New Contruction (3Hrs Disclosure) 10:00am - 11:00am @ Chandler Office Chandler Office Meeting

22 10:30am - 11:30am @ North PHX Office North Phoenix Office Meeting

23

11:30am - 1:00pm @ Surprise Office Fairway Media Day 2:00pm - 3:30pm @Scottsdale Office Trusted Advisor University with the Cromford Report and Tina Tamboer

4:30pm - 6:30pm @ State 48 Surprise Happy Hour

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3:30am - 4:30pm @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Office Accountability

9:00am - 4:00pm / Zoom ProStart Session 1 (3 Days) 10:00am - 1:00pm @ Goodyear Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS: Master the AAR Listing Contracts (3Hrs Contract Law) 10:00am - 11:00am @ Chandler Office Google Business Profile Workshop 10:00am - 11:00am @ Chandler Office Agent Insights with Cynthia & Justin

9:00am - 10:00am / Webinar West USA Weekly Podcast 9:00am - 4:00pm / Zoom ProStart Session 1 (3 Days)

28 9:00am - 12:00pm @ Chandler Office FREE LIVE CE CLASS: Contracts 2: The Latest!

(3Hrs Contract Law) 9:00am - 4:00pm / Zoom ProStart Session 1 (3 Days) 9:00am - 12:00pm / Zoom FREE REMOTE CE CLASS: Advanced Contract Writing (3Hrs Contract Law) 10:00am - 11:00am @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Monthly Coaches Meeting 10:30am - 11:30am @ Stapley Center Mesa Office Meeting 2:00pm - 3:00pm @ Goodyear Office Goodyear Monthly TC Huddle

SPONSORS

29 9:00am - 2:00pm @ North PHX Office Blood Drive 10:00am - 1:00pm @ Scottsdale Office LIVE CE CLASS: Understanding Reverse Mortgage Strategies and Guidelines (3Hrs General Credit)

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