Nonverbal cues from clients often go missed, but they're as important as what your customers say out loud.

This infographic from Depositphotos showcases seven creative design trends for next year, such as "ultra-contemporary art" and "clutter core," influenced by Generation Z's love of authenticity and a personal touch. Sentimentality, AI-generated visuals and imagery that blends harmony with handcrafted features are among the other trends.

Braden McMillan, director of communications at the Business Council of British Columbia, emphasizes the importance of strategy over tactics in PR. McMillan warns against the "tactic trap"—where flashy ideas overshadow strategic thinking—and advises professionals to pause and evaluate whether a tactic aligns with overall goals before acting. "You weren't hired because you know all the tricks in the comms playbook; you were hired because you know which ones to use and when," McMillan adds.

In a special episode of the "Drive With NAR" podcast, recorded live at NAR NXT in Boston, NAR Deputy Chief Economist Jessica Lautz breaks down the association's 2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers, discusses buyer resilience and shifting market power for sellers, and offers advice on what real estate professionals should look for when interpreting market data.

From conversations with friends and colleagues to education sessions and opportunities to teach, Young Professionals Network member Heather Haase found camaraderie, resilience, hope and a passion for the industry around every corner of the conventional hall in Boston. Here are a few of her insights from real estate's premier conference.

A home inspired by the castles of Castile, Spain, is for sale in Los Angeles for $1.789 million. The three-bedroom residence, named Castille, was built in 1992 and features a Mediterranean postmodern design, panoramic views, geometric forms and a chef's kitchen. Shakira del Fresno is the listing agent.

Smart home devices can greatly enhance convenience and security, but improper installation can hinder their effectiveness. Common mistakes include not setting a budget, buying the least expensive gadgets, overlooking compatibility and failing to ensure adequate Wi-Fi coverage. It's also crucial to update devices regularly, inform household members on usage and consult landlords if renting.

Gratitude in the workplace is more than just polite gestures; it builds a culture where employees feel valued and motivated, write Karin Hurt and David Dye, who recommend making gratitude a daily habit and giving team members specific and meaningful thanks for a job well done. "It's not just about making people feel good—it's about creating a culture where people feel seen, respected, and motivated to give their best," they write.

Housing policy was a major focus in the recent elections, with voters deciding on numerous state and local measures. Affordable housing initiatives received broad support, with significant funding approved in Rhode Island, Los Angeles County, Baltimore and three cities in North Carolina. However, measures related to renter protections and homelessness support were less successful unless paired with affordable housing strategies.

U.S. Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis President Neel Kashkari says a 25-basis-point interest-rate cut is a "reasonable consideration" for the December meeting, given the economy's resilience. "Right now, knowing what I know today, still considering a 25-basis-point cut in December—it's a reasonable debate for us to have," he said.