Washington real estate pro Rocky DeVon describes the setbacks for his business after recent wildfires engulfed his community—something he has seen happen nearly two dozen times in his lifetime. Listen to "Drive With NAR: The Safety Series" for guidance on how to mitigate the damage to your livelihood when a disaster strikes.

Being able to offer tips for how green-minded clients can achieve the lifestyle they want can make you a valuable source of information before, during and even after the transaction.

Steven Diaz, a real estate professional with EXP Realty in Fresno, Calif., has gained attention in the industry for his music talent, performing at real estate gatherings throughout the U.S. When showing homes, clients are more interested in the properties than his rap skills, but Diaz believes that his unique approach helps him differentiate himself in a competitive market.

Two out of three marketers are excited about the potential AI has for society, while 39% of consumers share the sentiment, per research from Morning Consult and Advertiser Perceptions commissioned by iHeartMedia. The study also found marketers are overwhelmingly motivated by fear and fortune, while family and friends drive consumers' beliefs, which is a "reminder of how different we marketers are from today's consumers," says iHeartMedia Chairman Bob Pittman.

More homeowners are looking to the side areas around their home, aiming to maximize every square inch of their outdoor space. Here's what you can do.

Household formation rose by 1.2 million in the second quarter, marking the quickest pace since the onset of the pandemic and raising the total for the year to 2.1 million, according to Newmark. "Household formation is thus trending upwards and running consistently above the pre-pandemic average, which should support housing demand," Newmark said. Meanwhile, elevated interest rates and the cost of homeownership could drive demand for the multifamily segment.

In Martin County, Fla., the Sheriff's Office is reminding real estate professionals of its REALTOR® Standby Program, designed to enhance safety during open houses. Agents can request a deputy's company via a call to a non-emergency line, ensuring they can safely conduct their business, particularly when dealing with unfamiliar clients at empty properties.

Furnish, a South Dakota real estate pro, empowers leaders in government, the faith community and the business and creative sectors to work together to support the nearly 1,700 children in foster care in the state. Learn about all 10 finalists vying for NAR's Good Neighbor Awards, and vote for your favorite cause through Oct. 1.

Higher property insurance premiums in south Louisiana, driven by recent hurricanes, have wreaked havoc on affordable housing projects, causing delays and financing challenges for developers. Insurance rates for multifamily complexes have doubled or even tripled, forcing some developers to seek state funding.

The Charlotte, N.C., City Council approved grants totaling more than $5 million for four nonprofit organizations to support affordable housing initiatives. However, concerns from nearby residents led to the temporary postponement of a $2 million grant for the construction of 37 rental townhouses in east Charlotte, intended for formerly incarcerated people.