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10 Management Professional things agents should know and do | SFPMA

10 Management Professional things agents should know and do | SFPMA

10 Management Professional things agents should know and do.

 

  1. Immediate Response: As a real estate agent you need to make your response time, when your prospective buyer calls or emails, as quick as possible. If the buyer doesn’t find you available then he may call somebody else. Buyers want instant response and will not wait for you to call them back or respond to mails only when you are in office.

2. A person he can trust: An agent needs to tell the buyer the truth even if it means losing the sales. While you speak volumes about the virtues of a home, you need to point out the possible defects as well so that the buyer can think twice and not be blinded by only the positive features. The buyer should feel that you are on his side and fluff and untruth will make him lose his confidence in you.

  1. Keep learning on the job: A person is smart when he hires people smarter than he is (Henry Ford). A buyer wants to use your education and experience in order to feel that he has employed the right person to do the job. You should come across as an expert in the field. The best and only way it is done is through constant learning. This can be through trainings and also reading relevant stuff. You should have a ready knowledge about the property that you are highlighting.
  2. Good communication skills: You need to be extremely good at handling your communications. There are all kinds of buyers and while some prefer an e-mail others may like you to call them. The best course is to ask them their preferred mode of communication. Always remember to promise less and deliver more.

 

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  1. Professional and friendly: Being friendly and at the same time maintaining professionalism is the best way, although a bit difficult. Friendliness is preferred by most buyers as you give out the vibe that you are on their side. At the same time they also want you to be assertive and professional. They want you to handle anything that may come up while they are probably viewing the house or saying €no’ to a particular seller.
  2. Information about the neighborhood: When you are trying to sell a property in a particular neighborhood you should have good knowledge about it in terms of amenities and facilities. Your buyer may be interested in knowing about train stations or bus stops that are close by. The interest could even be a park for children. Make a search and find out all you can about areas where most of the properties that you deal in are located.
  3. Price guide: You need to be the professional who has inside information about the price. The client may be interested in your opinion so prepare yourself well. You need to be careful that you do not quote a price that is too low or too high. You need to be ready with market trends and facts for the particular area and similar properties. Guide them to make an informed decision.
  4. A good inventory: When a buyer visits you he wants to know about as many properties as he can. He expects a wide inventory and you need to be ready with one. Since you cannot predict the kind of home each buyer requires as buyers buy for their own reasons, you need to have all kinds of properties ready. The choice of properties should take care of a wide arena of needs and requirements.
  5. Dedicated time: When a buyer comes to you he expects you to devote all your time to him until he leaves or makes a decision. Remember you may be selling 10 houses in a week but for him it is one single home that he may be buying in a lifetime. You need to show your enthusiasm and zeal and help him to decide on the perfect home. Try and focus on him and the transaction he is going to make and leave all work aside for the time being.
  6. Time saving transactions: The modern real estate buyer is hard pressed for time. He wants the transaction to be fast and take up as little time as possible. And he would like you to handle things in such a way that the total time is cut down and he can proceed with other things. So do your homework and be prepared to save time, both his and yours.

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If you’re a homeowner, water is one of the biggest threats to your house and personal belongings. by Smart Water Protection

If you’re a homeowner, water is one of the biggest threats to your house and personal belongings. by Smart Water Protection

  • Posted: Apr 19, 2026
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If you’re a homeowner, water is one of the biggest threats to your house and personal belongings. Your house has an intricate network of plumbing and a burst pipe could lead to both major headaches and expensive repair bills. Not to mention other water problems, like a heavy storm, a deep freeze or even a busted hose on a dishwasher.

It seems your home is always moments away from getting soaked.
Water damage (including damage from freezing) is one of the most common and most costly types of homeowners insurance claims. Every year, about one in 50 homeowners will file a water damage or freezing claim, accounting for almost 24% of all homeowners insurance claims, according to the Insurance Information Institute. The average cost of a water damage or freezing claim is about $10,900.
One of the best ways to protect a home from water damage is by taking some preventative measures. Keeping up with routine maintenance and making prompt repairs is key.
Remember, homeowners insurance covers water damage that is “sudden and accidental” but not gradual problems or maintenance issues. If you have a problem like a leaky faucet, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible.
Here are other steps you can take:
Drain water heaters twice a year to help prevent sediment buildup.
• Install smart water leak detectors that will send an alert to your phone or email. (Some detectors can
automatically shut off the water to prevent damage). In a LexisNexis study of 2,306 U.S. homes that installed a water leak detector had water-related claims go down by 96% compared to the two years prior to installation.
• Inspect hoses going to and from washing machines, dishwashers, water heaters and refrigerators. Repair or replace any damaged hoses if necessary.
• Inspect your roof and make any necessary repairs, such as replacing missing, rotten or damaged shingles. It’s also a good idea to clean out your roof gutters. Clogged gutters can overflow and allow water to pool near a home’s foundation, which could seep into your basement.
• Prevent frozen pipes if you live in an area that has extreme cold temperatures. Keep your heat set to at least 50 degrees and consider other precautions, like wrapping pipes with insulation.
Smart Water Protection

AKWA Technologies Solutions inc.

Valérie Mélignon • Executive Director, Strategic Alliances • 941.726.7806 • valerie@AKWAtek.com

Smart Water Protection

Dennis McSweeney • President • 941.350.1227 • dmcsweeney.swp@gmail.com

Four reasons why hydrojetting can be important for winter maintenance in the state of Florida. by GreenTeam Building Services.

Four reasons why hydrojetting can be important for winter maintenance in the state of Florida. by GreenTeam Building Services.

Hydrojetting is a method of cleaning and maintaining pipes using high-pressure water to remove debris, sediment, and other buildups. While Florida generally experiences milder winters compared to many other regions, there are still reasons why hydrojetting can be important for winter maintenance in the state:

1. Preventing Clogs from Cold Weather Effects: Hydrojetting prevents winter temperature-related pipe blockages by breaking down and flushing out materials that can solidify in colder water.
2. Clearing Debris from Storms and Heavy Rain: Heavy rain and storms during Florida winters can lead to debris accumulation in sewer systems. Hydrojetting clears these obstructions, preventing potential flooding.
3. Maintaining Sewer System Efficiency: Regular hydrojetting as part of winter maintenance prevents blockages and backups, ensuring the optimal year-round operation of sewer systems.
4. Addressing Potential Tree Root Intrusions: Hydrojetting is effective in removing and preventing tree root intrusions into sewer lines, reducing the risk of disruptions during winter months.
Hydrojetting is crucial for Florida’s winter maintenance, addressing challenges like temperature-related clogs, storm debris, and tree root intrusions. Stay proactive in preserving your commercial properties sewer systems’ efficiency by contacting us today!
📍 North Andrews Avenue Extension
Pompano Beach, Florida 33069
📞 Call us at (954) 210-4100
📧Email us at Service@getgreenteam.com
For other inquiries email us:
Projects@getgreenteam.com
Backflow@getgreenteam.com
Vacservice@getgreenteam.com
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“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,” by Becker

“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,” by Becker

  • Posted: Apr 19, 2026
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“Tree Root Damage, Who is Responsible?,”

by Becker / Joseph E. Adams

 

Q: I live in a gated homeowners’ association.  Roots from a tree planted on the common area has damaged my driveway.  Who is responsible for the repair? (J.K., via e-mail)

A:Probably you.

There are two theories which have been brought before Florida courts in an attempt to hold adjacent property owners liable for damage caused by tree roots or limbs encroaching past the property line, nuisance and negligence.

In a 1984 decision, a Florida appeals court noted that while there was substantial authority to the contrary in other jurisdictions, “the undoubted right of the land owner himself to cut off intruding roots or branches at the property line,” precludes a negligence claim.

As for nuisance, the majority rule in this country, which is followed in Florida, is that the owner of land is not liable to persons outside the land for a nuisance resulting from trees and natural vegetation growing on the land because the neighboring owner has the right to trim back roots and branches to the property line.

However, your association does have a duty to maintain common areas, and it could be argued that if this duty is not met, you could make a claim. However, this argument has not been tested in the courts and is contrary to fairly well-established precedent outside of the association setting.

 

Q: My homeowners’ association requires that children must be at least 16 years old to use any of the community’s amenities without an adult. I questioned this restriction and our community manager stated that the age requirement is not in the bylaws or covenants, but in the “new homeowner packet.” I never received a new homeowner packet. Can the association make this kind of a rule? My son is 15 and uses the pool and the gym regularly to exercise and I don’t think I need to be there with him when he does this. (P.S., via e-mail)

A: Restrictions aimed at families with children present difficult issues for associations. The federal fair housing law prohibits discrimination regarding the use of privileges, services or facilities associated with a dwelling because “familial status.” On the other hand, the courts have recognized that rules based on legitimate safety concerns are valid. No one would argue that an association should let a two-year-old toddler wander around a swimming pool area, unattended by an adult.

In a 2003 decision coming from a federal trial court in California, the court held that blanket rules requiring adult supervision for children under 18 years old using recreational facilities in a community were discriminatory. The court also found that the prohibitions based on children of less than a designated age was not the least restrictive means by which the community could protect the health and safety of children and residents, safety would be better served with a proficiency requirement.

There are other cases that have upheld restrictions and the law remains unsettled with no bright line as to what a reasonable age cut-off is or whether there are other means of ensuring safety in the community. You should ask your association to review your concerns with the association’s legal counsel and review whether the association should reconsider its policy.

I would also point out that as of July 1, 2018, Section 720.306(1)(e) of the Florida Homeowners’ Association Act requires that amendments made to HOA rules be “recorded in the public records of the county in which the community is located.” If the rule was adopted after that date, it should be recorded.

 

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Ready to relocate to sunny South Florida and grow under exceptional leadership?

Ready to relocate to sunny South Florida and grow under exceptional leadership?

  • Posted: Apr 15, 2026
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Ready to relocate to sunny South Florida and grow under exceptional leadership?
UPE is hiring a Senior Structural Engineer / Director of Engineering (PE/SE) to work under Carmelo Giglio, 2x FSEA President with 25+ years of expertise.

We’re excited to share that Carmelo Giglio, President of United Professional Engineering, will be speaking at the upcoming CAI webinar
In this free 1-hour CE course, Concrete Restoration 101: What Every Association Should Know, Carmelo will walk Board Members and Property Managers through the key things every association should understand before, during, and after a concrete restoration project.
Topics include:
• Florida compliance guidelines and structural requirements
• Strategic planning for restoration projects
• Common project challenges and how to handle them
• Best practices for safety, durability, and cost-efficiency
• What to look for in the right engineer and contractor
• How to avoid unnecessary risk and costly mistakes

 

U.S. FLAGPOLE INC IS A FULL SERVICE FLAGPOLE COMPANY

U.S. FLAGPOLE INC IS A FULL SERVICE FLAGPOLE COMPANY

  • Posted: Apr 15, 2026
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U.S. Flagpole Inc.

727-217-6487

U.S. FLAGPOLE INC IS A FULL SERVICE FLAGPOLE REPAIR COMPANY

Are you ready for Americas 250 yr Celebrations?

Take advantage of years of expertise – contact us for all of your Flag Pole Needs!

Our specialized equipment allows us to repair most flagpoles without the use of a bucket truck, reducing costs or damage by heavy equipment and allowing access in difficult-to-reach areas.

We service the entire state of Florida

Members of sfpma

Matt McClue
General Manager
U.S. Flagpole Inc.
727-217-6487
usflagpole@yahoo.com

“RIMKUS” IS A WORLDWIDE LEADER IN ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE.

“RIMKUS” IS A WORLDWIDE LEADER IN ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE.

“RIMKUS” ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT, CONSULTING AND SO MUCH MORE…

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO NEED ANY ASSISTANCE WITH YOUR 30, 40 OR 50 YEAR INSPECTIONS, CALCULATING AND PREPARING YOUR NEW RESERVE STUDIES OR NEED REPAIRS TO YOUR CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY — WATCH THEIR ONE MINUTE VIDEO.


Building Envelope Assessments

 The Rimkus Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Building Envelope Services team can provide a complete assessment of a structure’s building envelope (façades, roofs, windows, balconies, walkways, parking areas, etc.) describing the condition of such and all items in need of repair. A recommended timeline and a projected construction cost will also be provided to assist the owner in projecting future budgets.For a full survey of all building components, Rimkus can increase the scope of the survey and provide a full Property Condition Assessment (P.C.A.) including mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, elevators, and interiors.Building Envelope Assessments and PCAs are typically provided with 5- or 10-year projections; however, they may be customized to the client’s needs. These reports can be utilized as a tool to help create capital expenditure budgets and establish maintenance schedules.

Maximizing the value and life cycle of a building requires continuously maintaining performance and improving energy efficiency. Our building envelope services include:

  • Façade Inspections
  • Façade Restoration
  • Building Envelope Assessments
  • Roof Consulting
  • Waterproofing and Weatherproofing Assessments and Design
  • Historic Preservation
  • Pavement Engineering

RIMKUS

http://www.rimkus.com

AECAssignments@rimkus.com

800-580-3228

 

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DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU AND YOUR RESIDENTS ARE IN DANGER?

DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU AND YOUR RESIDENTS ARE IN DANGER?

SMYTH ENGINEERING!

Did you know that condominiums and apartment complexes must be restored every seven (7) years at a minimum? Do buildings within three (3) miles of the coast need to be rehabilitated more frequently due to exposure to chloride ions that can accelerate oxidation of structural reinforcing bars in concrete?
This is what leads to spalling and structural deficiencies that cause cave-ins and collapses.
With us and our experts, you’ll launch with the right plan in place, meet the project milestone, and finish on time and on budget!
For us, your safety and that of all families is the most important thing!
The best way to predict your future is to create it
WELCOME TO SMYTH ENGINEERING!
📲Direct Line: (772) 771-3176
📍Office Location: 369 NE Baker Road Stuart, FL 34994
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The Falcon Group – An industry-leader providing professional, cost effective and innovative architectural and engineering designs, solutions and services through the use of highly qualified staff and outstanding customer service.

The Falcon Group – An industry-leader providing professional, cost effective and innovative architectural and engineering designs, solutions and services through the use of highly qualified staff and outstanding customer service.

The Falcon Group is an industry-leader providing professional, cost effective and innovative architectural and engineering designs, solutions and services through the use of highly qualified staff and outstanding customer service.

Our structural engineers will design, plan and execute your project, tailored to suit each individual’s specific needs and budgets. Our engineers will inspect all materials used to ensure the strength and stability of your structure from low-, mid-, to high-rise structures and facilities. Falcon’s engineers pride themselves on ensuring the services and recommendations provided to each of our clients are held at the desired level of individualized care and attention.
  • High Rise & Mid Rise Façade Inspections & Repair/Restoration/Replacement

  • Stucco & Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS) Evaluations & Repair

  • Mid Rise & Low Rise Siding Inspections & Repair Replacement

  • Roof Inspections & Repair/Replacement

  • Water Infiltration Investigation & Remediation

  • Window & Door Replacement Design

  • Balcony & Deck Repair/Restoration/Replacement

  • Foundation Inspections & Waterproofing

  • Firewall / Fire Separation Assembly Inspections & Remediation

 


View our new brochure, learn how we can help you with the services we provide. 

Falcon-Florida Brochure

MIAMI
15405 NW 7th Avenue in Miami, FL 33169
Phone: 305-663-1970
marketing@thefalcongroup.us
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
5651 Corporate Way, Suite 4, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407
Phone: 561-290-0504
marketing@thefalcongroup.us
TAMPA BAY
1211 1st Avenue, N., Suite #106, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
Phone: 813-438-3568
marketing@thefalcongroup.us
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