Though both parties might balk at learning from one another, brokers can set the tone and relay the mutual benefit of working together.

Threads, Mastodon, Bluesky, Discord, and Tumblr are emerging as viable alternatives to Twitter as advertisers leave and controversial users return. These alternative social platforms offer diverse options with distinct features, catering to different users looking to move away from the platform.

The presidential election is affecting marketers in various ways, from brands holding off on recruitment to increased scrutiny from consumers around brand messaging. Marketing experts discuss walking the tightrope of brand purpose, with SS+K's Nadja Bellan-White saying, "It's so tough for brands this year—you have to be so careful." Edelman's Courtney Miller warns marketers who think staying quiet is a safe bet, noting, "Even silence is a stance right now."

A modest improvement in housing affordability may motivate more home buyers to make a move. Read more from NAR's latest housing report.

Axel Vervoordt has built a reputation based on the Wabi design aesthetic, focusing on minimalism and function. His firm counts Bill Gates, Sting and Kim Kardashian as clients.

Sales of new single-family homes in the U.S. decreased by 4.7% in August, according to the Commerce Department, although this drop was less than anticipated, and recent trends suggest potential for recovery due to falling mortgage rates and home prices. The Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cut has led to the lowest mortgage rates in over a year, which may encourage more buyers to enter the market despite the high level of new-home inventory. Economists predict that these conditions, along with ongoing demand and limited existing home supply, could lead to modest growth in new home sales into 2025.

Homeowners can enhance smart technology without a full upgrade by starting small with a few essential devices, such as a doorbell camera and a customizable smart lock. Inside, a smart display paired with a smart smoke detector can boost safety, while affordable smart lightbulbs and smart plugs can help save energy.

Ten NAR members who lead extraordinary volunteer efforts to improve their communities are vying to be named this year's winners of the Good Neighbor Awards. Which one is your favorite? Your votes will help the top three vote-getters earn bonus grant money for their cause. Vote for your Web Choice Favorite by Oct. 2.

A report from The Adecco Group and LHH encourages an approach to leadership that focuses on empathy, self-awareness, strong communication and emotional intelligence. "Leaders set the tone, plot the path forward and are responsible for ensuring that all employees feel supported, satisfied, and engaged," says the report, which emphasizes the importance of closing the connection gap between leaders and employees.

Chicago is considering the Accountable Housing and Anti-Discrimination Act to speed up the process of matching subsidized housing units with eligible residents. This ordinance would create a searchable database of available affordable homes.

Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed a four-year extension for New York City's Industrial and Commercial Abatement Program, which offers tax breaks to spur construction outside the traditional business district. Tax watchdogs opposed the deal, which was championed by Mayor Eric Adams and the Real Estate Board of New York.