How Avoiding Parking Can Lead To New Business

Whether you are seeking buyers, tenants, or investors, an important strategy for real estate marketing is to be where your target audience is. Perhaps some of your target audience has occasion to be at or near the property or opportunity you are marketing. When they are, it helps to be able to reach them with a message which fits your situation.

 

One great I example I saw was a few years ago while riding a tour bus during a leisure trip. The driver was the tour guide and was pointing out some of the unique styles of homes the bus was passing on the way to the next attractions. While pulling in to the final drop off, he mentioned that he would "do my best" to answer real estate questions. That would typically get a few of the riders to stop and talk with him while all passengers were leaving the bus. Whenever they showed some interest in learning more about home prices or the local real estate market, he would "get you the answer". He pulled out his phone and made a call to a local real estate agent on the spot, and hand them his phone. 

 

By the way, that local real estate specialist that could help the passengers happened to be his wife!

 

She was getting to talk to people at the very start of expressing a possible interest. Chances were near 100% they would not have spoken with anyone else. The wife knew what times the tour bus would be wrapping up, and could make herself available the majority of times.

 

These days, as the below linked stories each indicate, technology is being implemented to bring sports fans directly to the venue for the game either in style or through added convenience. Los Angeles has just certified a proposal for a gondola system to lift fans from Union Station to Dodger Stadium before and after games. A driverless taxi service has just contracted, exclusively, with the sports and concert arena in Las Vegas to bring ticket holders to the VIP entrance. Each of those is to help ticket holders avoid traffic and parking hassles. 

 

Perhaps you have a commercial or residential property convenient to where people enter these modes of transportation or have a real estate opportunity which appeals to sports or music fans. These could be opportunities to be where your target audience is.

 

While you are dealing with the real estate demands of your job or employees, having a fractional research and marketing person or team in place can make you "first in" on an innovative marketing opportunity!

 

https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/12/11/t-mobile-arena-strikes-official-robo-taxi-deal-with-amazon-subsidiary-zoox/

 

https://www.planetizen.com/news/2025/12/136533-la-metro-approves-controversial-dodger-stadium-gondola-plan 

 

 

Real Estate Opportunities Are Just What The Doctor Ordered

Being "first in" on success in real estate comes from more than being in the right place at the right time. I'm constantly telling my clients, students, and valued connections that the skill is doing the work it takes to put yourself in the right place. Some ideas come from need, while others come from researching outside of real estate circles.

 

One such example has been brought to light in North Carolina, where a proposed hospital project is nearing three years behind the original schedule while leaving an unfilled opportunity. It seems that a government regulation originally designed to increase the addition of healthcare facilities appears to be restricting them. As the below linked article demonstrates, there are regions with a clear need for local healthcare facilities. In this age of medical specialization, there are more and more treatment centers which are not physically located within an actual hospital. If you can't build a hospital, does it prevent a "treatment center" from being built?

 

Our topic is always real estate and marketing related. These comments are not geared toward medical professionals and experts. It is all about a real estate developer, investor, contractor, broker, and lender being able to work independently and together to create healthcare facilities which are not bogged down by regulations where there is clear and obvious demand. 

 

A few hours of research and planning could bring long-term results and create jobs for many. If your only focus is on real estate activities, you may be missing out on your next venture. Let my team and me make you and your team "first in". 

  

https://kffhealthnews.org/news/article/certificate-of-need-laws-north-carolina-hospital-bureaucracy-dirt-field

 

Posting Up For An Overpriced Transaction

The situation in downtown Denver with the former Denver Post building having been purchased by the city and the financial problems ever since bring up an unfortunate example of the need to carry a plan all the way through.

 

As the below linked article details, it appears that the purchase price was not properly analyzed ahead of time by those involved in the decision. The property itself may have value and fit the needs of the buyer, even at the agreed to price. However, the surrounding area is dominating the impact of how this purchase is turning out. 

 

Cited research shows that as much as 30% of Denver office space is delinquent, which means that the implications will be far more significant than just the Post Building. The purchase by the City was made within the past three years, during the post-pandemic era with remote work already still prominent. This situation did not just happen and be totally unexpected.

 

There is reportedly court action pending to attempt to resolve the matter, but the bigger question is how things got to this point. When an entity the size of the publishing company of the Denver Post, along with the analysts and brokerage they utilized, either don't see or ignore an important market trend, it shows us all how important doing thorough research is along with due diligence. 

 

Among the things we don't know is whether or not there were any other potential buyers or offers in play for the Building, and how high an initial offer was by the City.  

 

It's not about assigning blame as it is alerting those making buy and sell real estate decisions to more thoroughly investigate prior to going ahead with their purchase or selling. We see what can happen as a result of bad decisions. Those decisions are made even worse when made without having enough information. 

  

We can all learn from this. If you still need a research person or team, let's connect!

 

 

https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/broker-warning-denver-post-building/

 

 

Knowing What Is Nearby

Over the years I have talked a lot with my valued connections, clients, and students involved in retail or (physical location) service businesses about the value of being located near at least one restaurant. The "Where can I go to grab a bite?" factor can be big for coffee shops, like the "Where can take the kids while we wait?" factor is great for a fast food or ice cream shop.

 

My view is that commercial real estate is also about "location location location", and having a restaurant or an entity which could help attract your target audience can bring value to your potential customers or clients. One example is an auto repair shop in the Chicago area which is located directly across the street from the parking lot of a commuter train station. They are open earlier in the morning than most other shops, and with good reason. Their customers can easily drop their car off in the morning and go across the street to catch their train. When they return later that afternoon, they pick up their car, without losing more than a few minutes.

 

Chances are that the convenient location has added significant revenue to their business over the years, even though the commuter train has nothing to do with the car repair business. Now, as the below linked story confirms, we see some restaurant brands are upping the offer on appetizers and increasing emphasis on "Happy Hour" times which used to be down time.

 

There are lessons to be learned for real estate and business owners and sellers. Having a nearby business which includes your target audience could be a key selling or buying point. For marketers, there might be situations where non-competitors could team up and cross promote. 

 

Being aware of your surroundings could make you "first in" on increasing or improving your business! 

 

 

https://nypost.com/2025/12/08/business/diners-flocking-to-happy-hour-ordering-appetizers-and-skimping-on-entrees-as-affordability-hits-us-restaurants-nationwide/

 

 

 

 

 

Planning For Success For A Literally Underwater Property

Seeing even more detailed research, as linked below, to further the discussions about expanding San Francisco over the water is another recent trend for real estate professionals and investors to monitor. There are several key elements in play, including placing a value on real estate which doesn't currently exist against higher priced acreage for waterfront properties. Add in questions and costs for infrastructure and the "horizontal" needed for such a build. I'm not seeing it established that a municipality has the right to authorize space or provide zoning for a bay, ocean, or natural lake. Next, there would be concerns about elected and appointed officials making decisions which will carry many years of impact.

 

There is something to be said for the "reclamation" portion of this research. It is possible that some land parcels would gain added protection from the elements. However, this research and discussion falls under the heading of real estate, at least at this time.

 

Our focus is on research and marketing. Weather and climate conditions seem to be unique in and around San Francisco. There may not be enough data readily available to support the sustainability of building real estate structure into what is currently waterfront. Regardless of the amount of supporting data, I'm seeing numerous marketing questions and scenarios.

 

Among the challenges are attracting investors to the unknown, detailing a timeline without knowing what challenges await at the bottom of the bay or ocean, and planning for potential buyers and tenants to be willing to be the first to live (and walk and/or drive) under new conditions. 

 

Put all of this together, and you come up with numerous chances to be "first in" on opportunities for long-term real estate.  

 

https://www.planetizen.com/features/136483-san-francisco-out-land-amidst-rapidly-rising-seas-it-time-create-more 

Selling The Outcome Before The Property

When coaching or consulting with a broker or investor with a property or opportunity to sell, I like to begin with two questions, and ask them both at the same time.

 

"What property are you selling?"

 

"What situation are you offering?"

 

I continue to be surprised at how often the answer is about "the property", before going on to explain the reason I ask both questions at the same time. It's easy to overlook how people make buying decisions, including for big ticket items, for different reasons. They are often different reasons than what you, as the seller or representative, expect them to be.

 

Buying a car is an example. Some people buy a car based on their budget, as in, "What can I get for $xxx?". Others must have a specific brand or model, or require a certain level of performance. There are some more concerned with the look and status than the performance record. There are some that need room for the entire family or for space to carry equipment or merchandise. It is possible that some people could be looking at the same vehicle even though it is for different reasons.  

 

These are examples I constantly point out to my clients, students, and valued connections. A property or opportunity appeals to different potential buyers for different reasons. It should be up to you as the seller, presenter, or representative to do everything you can to point out that reason which would get their attention. Whether you have a piece of raw land, an abandoned house, or an entire office building, there are likely to be multiple scenarios to present. Your eventual buyer may be most interested in ONE of them, and may miss the opportunity if they are not made aware.

 

Tell a potential buyer why they would want to build, renovate, or relocate "HERE" as much as all about what is "there" for them to acquire. Presenting the right reason(s) for them could make them "first in" to a successful transaction.

 

 

 

 

 

Preventing A Watered Down Hospitality Opportunity

You can run the numbers on a hospitality real estate opportunity in a busy desert community. The costs for the land, utilities, construction or renovation, and the other details each pencil out in your favor. Those involved from the seller to the municipality to contractors meet or exceed expectations.

 

I'll bet you never thought about the water supply. Wait. What?

 

The below linked article reminds us all why researching a real estate or business opportunity needs to be more than 'running the numbers'. The water supply is never a business consideration, but here is an instance where a water crisis is forcing multiple hotels and resorts to close. There is no timetable for possible returns because it is out of the control of the owners of these properties. Results include significant revenue losses and the horrendous impact on employees and vendors.

 

Although you can't predict such a crisis ahead of time, becoming aware of this type of information could (and should) impact future decisions. There needs to be the "What could go wrong?" column on an analysis of an opportunity. What would it cost to hire large trucks to bring in tons of spring water containers from the nearest big city? 

 

Weighing that cost against having to close could be a difference maker. Or, it could further justify the move to close to the investors. Either way, your findings would demonstrate your ability to make solid decisions based on more information than your competition has. My team and I are poised to make you "first in" on your next (or current) opportunity.

https://www.reviewjournal.com/news/nation-and-world/water-crisis-forcing-another-closure-of-grand-canyon-hotels-3589826/ 

 

 

Is It Too Much Information OR Not Enough Information To Evaluate?

We have still another chapter in the real estate information age from which some people want specific information public while others do not. This time it involves climate risk. Within the past two years, Zillow added "Climate Risk" data to many of the property listings it features, ideally to provide more information to help consumers with their real estate decisions while searching. Now, it seems that many agents complained because of how that data, in some cases, wound up discouraging a potential buyer.

 

As a result, per the below linked article, Zillow has removed that feature. During the past couple of years, parts of the country have experienced major disasters like fires, hurricanes and tornadoes, earthquakes, and the like. Obviously, these events impact many lives along with financial considerations such as increased insurance rates. It is understandable that people looking for a property would want to lower the risks of future damage, which can reflect on property values.

 

A strong case can be made for keeping or removing climate risk information. However, whether Zillow (or other sources) clearly include it or not is not the point. As I see it, the significance is that in some parts of the country which are susceptible to these disasters, those risks can (or should) be a point of consideration for a potential home buyer or investor. Whether the data is "handy" or not, some circumstances dictate that the research be done to find out about potential consequences.

 

Let this serve as an example that even a potential single-family home buyer should be doing research on their own IN ADDITION to what the real estate they work with is providing. Some people choose not to, thinking that the real estate agent they are working with would provide that information. However, if many agents do not want that information included, you cannot be certain they would provide it to you. 

 

No matter what, it will be your decision. The more research and information you have, the better the decision(s) you will make. 

  

https://techcrunch.com/2025/12/01/zillow-drops-climate-risk-scores-after-agents-complained-of-lost-sales/ 

 

 

What If They Couldn't Get To Your Website?

When discussing branding and marketing strategies with real estate professionals, investors, and lenders, the response of "I only do......." comes out way too often. Too many people and companies ignore the possibility of "What would you do if what you only do is no longer there"?

 

What would happen if a large percentage of your target audience could no longer get to your website? There are more than enough marketing challenges right now in the real estate space, especially when it comes to listings and commissions. Those are separate issues from how many people can access your website. Part of the research my team and I do for our valued clients and students, along with FirstIn, involves monitoring business and other news which could impact real estate.

 

There are plenty of people that are unaware that the Supreme Court is currently considering a challenge against a large internet provider, as the below linked article updates. The challenge deals with music companies attempting to come down on Internet Providers for "allowing" their clients to allegedly steal music. A ruling against major providers could significantly impact their desire and ability to provide internet service, while increasing their ability to restrict it. It could mean cutting off internet for coffee shops, hospitals, colleges and universities, and many other public internet places. 

 

If that were to happen, even for days or weeks, the result would be a significant reduction in visits to every kind of website, and that would include real estate. This situation should serve as a reminder to explore other options and to be prepared for whatever may come your way. 

 

 

https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-supreme-court-hear-copyright-dispute-between-cox-record-labels-2025-12-01

 

 

Bringing More Options To Buyers and Sellers

It continues to amaze me how many real estate brokers and investors I talk to tell me about “my lender” in singular instead of plural terms. While they see it as convenience and reliability, I see it as restricting their ability to get deals done. This is likely an extension of the efforts of my team and myself to help my valued clients and students explore every nook and cranny when it comes to evaluating an opportunity, whether it is buying, expanding, or selling.

On the residential side, a broker typically performs a Listing Presentation in hopes of gaining an exclusive contract from a seller. The presentation includes everything from an opinion of the subject property and its value to reasons to work with him/her along with the company he/she represents. When representing a buyer, many brokers only offer one mortgage program. 

When representing sellers, one of the many marketing gaps I see is the lack of financial options made available to the buyer. Some sellers are able to provide seller financing or offer some form of incentive, whether the buyer elects to use it or not. 

Being able to offer more than one lending or funding scenario could make the difference in getting to the closing table. Even if it does not, you spread the word that you have even more capabilities than many other brokers doing what you do where you do it.

There are plenty of funding options, many of which are specialized, which could fit the situation to help your client. For example, if a house for sale is near a hospital, there may be a lender offering custom programs for medical professionals. If your preferred lender does not offer it, it should not stop you from being able to better serve an appropriate client, especially when it could make the difference toward earning a commission.

It’s the difference that having a research and marketing person or team on your side can make in helping you to close deals.

 

https://RealEstateMediaCoach.com 

 

 

 

 

 

When Their Economic Development Can Also Be Yours

Many real estate developers and investors would see a story about Smyrna, GA, officials looking at improving their downtown and not bother to read it. One reason for not reading it is because they will tell themselves they don’t have time. 

From here, these are stories that should be at the top of their reading list, regardless of geographic location. Smyrna happens to be 700 miles away from my office, but that doesn’t matter. The below linked story provides plenty of information about what that municipality is looking at to significantly expand the economic development of its downtown area. 

They are calling for 350 single-family homes, a new hotel, and a number of improvements geared toward handling the additions. With serious discussions on the docket for Q1 of 2026, there could quickly be plenty of opportunities for developers, investors, brokers, lenders, and contractors. Sometimes it is who you know ahead of what you know.

What I know about this is that my team and I are currently working with two municipalities which are hundreds of miles away toward bringing state-of-the-art new development to each, including a family entertainment destination and restaurant facility which can be indoor or outdoor depending upon the current weather and conditions. We joke that “It takes a Village!” to improve one because of coordinating between various entities and concepts.

Now we get word that Smyrna is among those communities seeking those opportunities. Those that overlook the story (and others like it) will miss out on the type of opportunities they think they are pursuing.

Meanwhile, I have the time to research and pursue opportunities to make my valued clients and connections “first in” on their next profitable venture.

 

 

https://atlanta.urbanize.city/post/downtown-smyrna-development-plans-project-emerge-church

 

Which Amenities Mean The Most For A Property?

When a potential buyer is considering one property vs. another, chances are the points for comparison include costs along with amenities or conveniences. Some buyers are more interested in a fireplace, or prefer an attached garage, for example. When selling, it can help to know which amenities are most desired by potential buyers so they could be highlighted.

The below linked article details recent findings about the “top” amenities that home buyers are seeking at this time. You never know which amenities may be more important to certain potential buyers. It may be worthwhile to explore the competition.

For example, one investor I know of is also a licensed broker. He and his partner, who is a General Contractor, acquired a property which needed major rehab. They were in the planning process for their new property. As part of their planning, they visited similar properties on the market within a few miles by lock box or showings. By doing so, they were able to see for themselves which amenities and features they would be “competing” against when they were ready to list their newly renovated property.

They came away with several helpful ideas they implemented which they had not originally planned on and were not significantly costly. When it came time for showings, they were able to point out which of those “in demand” amenities were available with their property, and to make direct comparisons against other properties on the market. Chances are the sellers (and agents) for other properties in the same area were not able to make as many direct comparisons, although that is speculation.

Part of doing your homework is knowing as much as possible about what you are up against.

 

https://eyeonhousing.org/2025/11/what-home-features-add-the-most-value/

 

 

 

 

Preparing For Either Buying Scenario

At this time it has become difficult to project home sales during 2026 as they compare to what we have for 2025. The below linked article shows how Fanny Mae’s projections for the coming year are below those of its projections from the past two months and further below projections from the NAR. As the article admits, the meeting of the feds coming on Dec. 9 and 10 could show us how mortgage would (or would not) be impacted, which could have a bearing on the residential market.

Anticipating is a huge part of researching and marketing when it comes to real estate. The home sales market can go in several directions in the near future. Your choices for how to proceed need to factor in market trends, but your options should be based upon your current situation, your long-term goals, and your advance research.

Here is an example. Suppose you are a new home developer or builder. If the numbers are right, you decide to build, starting today. Do you have options for the results?

How much would your profit (or benefit) be if you have to sell it outright for less than you are expecting? How much could you profit in the long run if you offered the home as build-to-rent or rent-to-buy?

Those are questions you should have, or be compiling, answers to. Be ready with your chosen strategy based on whatever news comes your way. You may not know if you will sell or rent upon completion, but having a strategy in preparation for whichever is more favorable is what makes the difference. 

Chances are you are not the only one building where you choose. Being “first in” with a solid strategy could also help you to acquire a build from another source because they were not ready with a solid strategy and choose to cut their losses.

Still don’t think you need a research person or team?

 

https://www.realestatenews.com/2025/11/21/home-sales-projections-fall-in-revised-2026-forecast

 

 

 

 

When You Create Room For 10,000 New Homes, You Are In The Zone

Finding a way to solve a real estate challenge and being among the "first in" to solve it work hand in hand. Let's give credit to a group in Illinois for pointing out how reducing lot sizes in and around municipalities could produce an additional 10,000 homes per year while making them more affordable. The below linked story details many of the subject locations.

 

Other states are taking action in different ways, such as California and Washington approving legislation allow for more ADUs (Additional Dwelling Units) to be constructed within existing residential parcels.

 

Part of the challenge is that zoning changes don't happen overnight. However, a proposed change in progress is a lot more efficient than having nothing on the table. There are plenty of possibilities for real estate developers, builders, investors, contractors, and lenders from these possibilities. Many of them are currently struggling to uncover future business while taking it one project at a time.

 

Being "first in" on an opportunity like these takes even more than pursuing legislation or an ordinance. It takes doing the right research. Knowing that "right here" on the map is where we would build as soon as the ordinance passes is a strong approach. For example, you get behind the proposed zoning change for (name of town), but you already have the research and cost estimates for parcels on Oak Street. Identify the best opportunities for your business and then pursue changes.

 

Let your competition continue to sit around hoping their phone will ring and wait for zoning matters to pass without planning anything specific. My team and I can help you do that! 

 

https://www.illinoispolicy.org/illinois-cant-afford-to-miss-out-on-10000-extra-homes/

 

 

 

When Less Than Half Is Too Much For Real Estate Agents

One of the most important aspects of my coaching for real estate agents is looking into how much (or little) of their business is repeat business. I understand that many agents take the "They know I'm here, and I have enough clients" approach to being pitched with marketing channels. Personally, I have never been content with being content. What I want for my clients is for the repeat business number to drop year over year.

 

Seeing the fresh NAR research (linked below) showing that the "average" percentage for repeat business among brokerages around the country is more than 40% shows me how much the agents I work with stand to gain. Obviously, you should be doing everything possible to encourage repeat business and trying to increase it. Suppose you completed 20 transactions last year and had 10 "repeat" clients. That is 50%, which is higher than the national average.

 

For the coming year, continue to do, at minimum, what you did to be top of mind for those 10 repeat clients. However, the updated strategy should be to increase and emphasize what you did to attract the 'other' 10. The marketing goal should be to generate 20 "non-repeat" clients next year. That would give you 30 for the year, including your 10 repeats. One result is that your repeat client ratio drops to 33%, but the biggest result is that you would have increased your overall business by 33%.

 

I continue to see so many opportunities for real estate agents to make a difference and distinguish themselves to "new" potential buyers and sellers. Practically everyone expects the real estate market to improve if and when rates go down and if and when the current political tension eases up and consumers regain confidence. Some real estate agents are planning to wait until that happens and THEN start their marketing. Those that are "first in" and have a marketing strategy in place BEFORE those things happen are the ones that stand to benefit the most.

 

My office is setting up for a "$25 Tune Up" to include personal reviews of agent marketing strategies and a virtual consultation to discuss ways to implement them and increase your business. Let's chat! 

 

 

https://www.floridarealtors.org/news-media/news-articles/2025/11/re-firms-face-affordability-costs-pressures

 

 

Trust Travel Trends For Real Estate Decisions

Many landlords of short-term rental properties rely on travelers, whether seasonally or annually, for their revenue. A change in overall travel patterns can bring significant change to income and potential income, even if temporary.

 

Fresh research, as linked to below, shows major changes in travel trends, ranging from which age groups are traveling more and less often, and adjustments in their spending habits. As the holiday travel season begins, we are seeing data about how consumers are adjusting travel plans.

 

If your real estate property, investing, or brokering depends in part or in full on related travel, a big part of the long-term success plan is being able to correctly anticipate what is coming. If you foresee problems with your typical customers coming to your location(s) of interest, you are more likely to have time to make adjustments. You might be able to adjust the length of time for your tenants to stay, or be able to offer something more easily affordable to keep the property occupied or active.

 

Anticipation does not have to be a guessing game. It should not be. This is why and where continuously doing research comes in. Some people have the "If it works, don't fix it" theory when it comes to their properties, investments, and opportunities. However, there is still a need for maintenance no matter what. I am always telling my clients, students, and valued connections about monitoring your current situation for possible changes. Meanwhile, I'm helping others to monitor numerous situations. Being able to properly anticipate could make you "first in" on the best possible timing to make an offer or create a profitable new opportunity! 

 

https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/retail-distribution/holiday-travel-survey.html  

 

 

When A Property Is Under Water On Purpose

It’s not about what you think of how they do things in China. In the case of creating a data center, it’s the innovation which is worthy of attention. As the below linked story indicates, construction is underway for a fully underwater data center which is wind powered. The underwater location brings advantages including significant reductions in air conditioning costs along with land acquisition. 

This is not to say that major projects like it should be constructed underwater. The value of learning about it comes from the innovation shown by implementing this project. Someone started this with an idea, and others would have performed a ton of research to determine its viability prior to spending millions on construction. There would obviously be a ton of research necessary about logistics, access to update, repair, and maintain. Whoever those people are, they were able to make this happen.

In addition to bringing significant power to that country, my point is how it shows the “power” of taking an idea, doing the research, and making it happen.

 

https://www.wired.com/story/china-dives-in-on-the-worlds-first-wind-powered-undersea-data-center

 

 

 

 

The "On" Or "Off" Market Decisions

There are many considerations when it comes to placing a property on the market, but in recent times how it is placed has become more of a priority. Since the passing of legislation regarding buyer commissions on the residential side, it seems like the "off market" listing world has skyrocketed.

 

The "divide" which has impacted our political world is present in the real estate world, although in different context. It seems that more and more real estate investors take the "I only buy off-market" approach, which results in little to no bidding competition they think will favor them. The other side of the coin is that an off-market listing may not be priced in conjunction with comparable listings, which can be good or bad for a potential buyer.

 

Like with so many things in real estate, there are plenty of pros and cons to being a buyer or seller on market or off-market. My view is that the best way depends on the motivation of the buyer AND the seller ahead of a predetermined notion as to which way is best.

 

Some sellers want a bidding war while others are looking for a precise fit without alerting anyone else that the opportunity exists. I was recently asked which method is "better" between selling on or off-market. My answer was and remains, "It depends on the opportunity, case by case".

 

Whichever approach you choose requires plenty of research and preparation whether on the selling or buying side. It's about finding the best path to be "first in" on getting the results you are seeking!  

  

https://www.realestatenews.com/2025/11/06/off-mls-transactions-cost-sellers-thousands-new-report-finds  

 

 

If The State Is Spending Billions, They See The Same Opportunities

With the increased attention being paid to some municipalities taking the lead on residential and commercial development, we continue to see many differences in their approach. The news that the Texas Department of Transportation is looking at the billions of dollars it would take to improve its overall transportation problem goes above and beyond what many of its municipalities are doing.

 

State projections show that Texas could add 9,000,000 more residents within the coming 25 years. Those that live, work, and/or visit the Dallas Metroplex and the Houston area are aware of how much traffic is already in place. Smaller towns also lack transportation other than cars. 

 

Public meetings are already taking place around the State with more to come. If there are going to be locations where train stations and other transportation hubs are going to be constructed, there are going to be plenty of new opportunities. People may want to live near convenient transportation which would save car payments. Restaurants and retail benefit by the built-in audience. Real estate developers, investors, contractors, lenders, and brokers all have the potential for a lot of work and income producing opportunities.

 

In this case, it's not all fuss about a single location or community. Texas is a huge state, with the Dallas, San Antonio, Houston triangle encompassing hundreds of square miles and opportunities within that region alone.

 

Now is the time to increase your research and development so that your team can be "first in" on an opportunity which best fits within your wheelhouse. Let's talk!  

  

https://apnews.com/article/transportation-mass-transit-texas-general-news-952ae04063b7f7d3cb1861b492cf40c8 

 

 

The Impact Of Marketing And Acquiring Hospitality Properties Right Now

The current reduction in flights due to the 2025 Government Shutdown is already having a negative impact on revenue of many hotels and the hospitality industry, whether parts of a chain or individual locations. It is more than canceling trips. Factors like re-booking flights for a day later or having to depart a day earlier also take their toll on destination revenue.

 

You may be wondering what this has to do with real estate marketing, and I'm here to tell you that the answer is "plenty", especially for developers, investors, and brokers. The shutdown is going to end at some point, hopefully very soon. When it does, estimates are it could take weeks before airline travel is back to normal. This is happening during Q4 of 2025, in time to show a less positive revenue trend for the quarter and consequently for the entire year, despite earlier rises in travel dollars.

 

As a real estate investor or developer, right now could be an ideal time to make an offer on an existing facility, especially when lost revenue could serve to reduce the value of an appraisal. (See the office building lending crisis for examples.) Appraisals do not take temporary circumstances into account. By the end of this year, some hotels could be appraised for six or seven figures less than they are "really" worth. A broker representing a buyer or an institutional buyer might be able to step in and pounce while appraisal prices are lower than they should be.

 

Meanwhile, suppose your team is involved with what really is a struggling hotel property and you want "out". Right now is the ideal time to spread the word, because a lot of other hotel numbers will be going "down" at the same time. Perhaps your revenue is not dropping as badly as many destination hotels and resorts for Q4.

 

Of course, it takes more than a couple of days to perform the research necessary to identify these opportunities, produce the offer (or selling package) and prepare to negotiate quickly (before the impact of the shutdown ends), and be ready with an operational plan.

 

Those that know how to react to a situation and plan ahead could gain a lot for years to come if they have the right research, planning, and preparation in place. Meanwhile, those that don't think they need a research person on their team will let still another long-term profit opportunity go by unnoticed. Let's discuss how my personal 30+ years of researching, marketing, and planning can put you in the best possible position!

 

https://apnews.com/article/flight-cuts-government-shutdown-airlines-c21ffa6c3d55e3d2fe7f53702112727b

 

  

When There Is Good and Bad From Zoning and Building Code Changes

While some real estate developers and investors continue to look to build new or for conversion opportunities in big cities, the movement to keep what is currently there has momentum in some locations. It is a reflection of why basing important decisions only on how the numbers pencil out may not be enough to make a solid decision.

 

One example is among the ordinances which were just approved in Baltimore as part of their government plan to ease access to existing affordable housing. When, as shown in the earlier proposal linked below, ordinances allow one stairway (instead of two) for a six-story apartment building, you know that the goal is to keep residents within the city limits. However, the more important components are elements like easing parking requirements and other building and zoning code requirements to actually make it more favorable for development. 

 

It is possible that a developer of a new housing structure, whether entirely or partially affordable housing, may not have been aware of the proposed ordinance when signing off on the deal. The potential difficulty of leasing their entire space may be reduced as the ordinances take effect in relation to construction and availability. Or, there could be elements which make new construction even more favorable!

 

To me, it's like when your favorite football team scores a touchdown. Some people immediately cheer, while others take a moment to make sure there are no penalty flags. When it comes to real estate, it does not all have to happen in a split second, but your proposal can still be "first in". Having the best and most thorough research makes sure there are no penalty flags.

  

https://mayor.baltimorecity.gov/news/press-releases/2025-05-12-mayor-brandon-m-scott-introduces-legislation-expand-housing-access#:~:text=buildings%20up%20to%20six%20stories%20to%20be%20safely%20constructed%20with%20a%20single%20staircase

 

 

How To Stop Ai From Further Inflating Real Estate Costs

I'm seeing more and more evidence of problems resulting from too much reliance on Ai, especially in real estate. Maybe it's because I am such a big proponent of doing more thorough research than others to have more information in your favor. The below linked article discusses how the use of Ai for major construction projects appears to be aggressively inflating costs for both materials and labor. In other words, more than ever it depends upon which side of the negotiating table you are on.

 

Until now, my reasons for discussing the use of Ai, compared with using Hi (Human Intelligence) have focused on the data. If I am bidding on a project against five other sources and rely on Ai, I could easily be submitting the same data that four other bidders are and significantly reduce my odds for success. Having plenty of Hi, especially when based on extensive research, should bring me a huge advantage.

 

It now looks like those on the buying side need to be aware of how Ai could be inflating costs. If you don't know how to, or take the necessary time to do thorough research, you could wind up spending thousands of dollars more than necessary. I would not be surprised if the "thousands of dollars more" amount makes a project seem not worthwhile, when it could actually be very worthwhile if priced properly.

 

To put it more strongly, my wife works in healthcare. One of the reasons she dislikes Ai is that medical data could be taken from one or more patients that required heavier doses of medications or a custom diagnosis which does not apply to other individuals in making general determinations.

 

This is not to compare people's lives against real estate transactions, but it is the same theory. My clients, students, and valued connections are learning the difference, and the continuing need for Hi to take over.  

 

https://natlawreview.com/article/will-artificial-intelligence-increase-prices-construction-materials-equipment-and

 

 

 

How Crimes of Others Can Help Your Marketing

One of the elements of marketing for success I remind my clients and coaching students of, and have over the years, is about marketing your process. The below linked article is an example of an opportunity to do that very thing.

 

The article, unfortunately, focuses upon a crooked property manager that used applicants' personal data for illegal purposes. In recent years, many property managers have converted to software, apps, or websites for applications, rent payments, and work requests which require personal credit or debit information.

 

Although such technical considerations are subject to hacks, those are typically more secure than handwritten or snail mail for all concerned. As stories such as this circulate, adding that your property "only utilizes secure payment systems", or words to that effect, is more likely to make a difference in a potential tenant or client's decision.

 

Doing so is a constructive way of saying, "Our company won't put you in a situation allowing you to be compromised". Find out how many (or how few!) of your competitors are doing this very thing. The fewer that are, the more of an advantage promoting this gives you. Keep in mind that your business is not increasing any costs by promoting this more effectively.

 

Many of your competitors will not bother to read this story, let alone react to it. Your being "first in" with a reaction could bring more business your way. You don't have to be a leasing agent or property manager to use this method.

 

Let's connect, and discover what opportunities are already in place to help you! 

 

https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/santa-clara-county-former-apartment-manager-arrested-id-theft-case/  

 

 

 

 

 

If You Overbid On A Property You Won't Win

Coming up with research your competition does not have access to, has not thought of, or does not implement can bring a huge advantage when utilized properly. The below linked article is a great example, focusing on how property buyers that agreed to pay above list price were not able to achieve desired results years later.

 

What makes the findings even more pertinent is that this is not a random survey among 100 purchases made within a single region. The research cited consists of reviewing 14 million home sales across 30 states over 20 years. Anyone that disagrees would need to come up with some very powerful research in order to have a chance to contradict.

 

How you interpret this degree of research depends upon your mission and your perspective. Keep in mind that 14 million home sales across the country would not lead to incorrect information. You should do what it takes to use such powerful research to your advantage, whether you agree with it or not.

 

Let this serve as a reminder to real estate investors to thoroughly understand what their "top price" is for any property they are interested. Brokers representing buyers can use these findings to show clients why their offer is at the number they came up with, especially when the motivation is eventual resale. 

 

Many of my coaching students and marketing clients know how much I emphasize performing their own research for the purpose of gaining every possible advantage. Those that know to track information like agents and brokers sales compared against asking price already have data about who to contact whether looking to buy or sell. It is one of the ways I teach about knowing your audience. The best information can make you "first in" on getting the right deal. 

    

https://nypost.com/2025/11/03/real-estate/new-study-shows-why-winning-a-bidding-war-isnt-worth-it/