Many real estate professionals may think all they need to know about fair housing is what the law requires of them. "It's more than just the law," says Sabrina Brown, an instructor of NAR's "Bias Override" course. "It's how you treat people. It's how you practice your business on a daily basis." To truly evaluate whether you're representing your entire community — start by examining your client base — you need to go deeper in your self-reflection. Listen to "Drive With NAR."

Yes. Offers of compensation could continue to be an option consumers can pursue off-MLS through negotiation and consultation with real estate professionals. And sellers can offer buyer concessions on an MLS (e.g. concessions for buyer closing costs), provided that such concessions are not conditioned on the use of or payment to a buyer broker. Get more facts about NAR's settlement agreement at facts.realtor.

The gradual disappearance of third-party cookies hasn't led to enough creative, customer-focused strategies and first-party data usage, despite studies showing revenue benefits and cost savings, Carol Howley, chief marketing officer of email signature platform Exclaimer, writes. This new, direct connection with customers allows for a higher level of personalization and analysis, requires transparency and trust, and should involve new-to-you technologies that will enhance your efforts.

By 2029, Generational Alpha -- those born between 2010 and 2025 -- will account for $5.46 trillion in spending, with Allison Carter noting that this generation is digital savvy and has a language all their own that marketers must understand. Carter tries to pull the curtain back on what makes this generation tick by breaking down their more-used slang words, such as bet, GOAT and sus, per a Morning Consult report.

VML's latest Tomorrow's Commerce report identifies 20 trends forecast to shape commerce in the future, based on shopper surveys, input from businesses across various sectors and VML's in-house expertise. The report predicts a rising tide of disruptor brands that will challenge traditional players and foresees a growing amid the rise of social commerce to find ways to seamlessly convert social followers to buyers.

Don't underestimate how a coat of white paint can add depth and character to your interiors — but make sure you choose the right shade.

Mortgage rates fell slightly alongside the 10-year Treasury yield this week, with 30-year fixed loans and 15-year fixed loans averaging 6.79% and 6.11%, respectively, as of Thursday morning, Freddie Mac survey data shows. "We also are seeing encouraging data on existing home sales, which reflects improving inventory," said Sam Khater, chief economist at Freddie Mac.

An "ordinary" three-bedroom, one-bathroom house in rural Montana has sparked widespread surprise online after being listed for $1.1 million, attributed in part to a "trove of treasures" found in its basement. The property's listing, promoted by real estate agent Kirk Rossiter on Instagram in February 2024, went viral, amassing over 7.4 million views and garnering significant attention across social media and major news platforms.

Panelists at CBA LIVE this week explored AI's potential for enhancing how banks handle customer complaints, helping the institutions not only detect possible systemic issues but also bolster loyalty and reduce attrition among customers. Heather Hajek of Synovus Financial said AI "won't eliminate people's jobs" and instead "helps us do our jobs better," adding that AI is assisting in drafting written responses to customers and providing quick-reference guides for call center agents.

A digital identity encapsulates social media presence, ecommerce habits and any internet footprint left behind, personally or professionally. To protect and strengthen online presence, update passwords and use multi-factor authentication when logging in, delete personal information from devices no longer used, deactivate unused accounts and learn more about the current scams or viruses that could affect business.

The Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago is actively collaborating with local financial institutions in Wisconsin to develop targeted solutions for the housing crisis, focusing on aiding first-time homeowners, increasing affordable housing availability and supporting underserved communities. Through its Downpayment Plus Program, FHLBank Chicago offers grants to homebuyers who qualify.

Rises in interest rates, mortgage costs and credit card delinquencies suggest that US consumers are experiencing challenges over their finances, but technical analyst Ryan Detrick, CMT, comments: "I want to take the other side of higher rates and that is savers are finally being rewarded. It is estimated there is more than $6 trillion in money markets currently and most of those accounts are earning close to 5%. That right there is a plus side to higher rates." Detrick adds: "We are aware this isn't an ideal backdrop for everyone, as many are struggling. But the truth is if you've owned stocks and a house the past decade or more, are college educated, and willing to work hard, then your net wealth is likely near all-time highs."