Jennifer Atkisson-Lovett  directly addresses camera:  Whether you're new to the business or are a seasoned industry veteran who wants to avoid burnout, it's never a bad time to brush up on the fundamentals.
      I'm Jennifer Atkisson-Lovett, broker-owner of RE/MAX of Stuart. Let's take five minutes to discuss some basic activities you can do today to boost your business.
If you were not in real estate before 2010, then you only know a robust market, so these five points apply to you. However, veteran agents can benefit from these tips, too.
      First, meet with your lender or mortgage broker and get an education on Adjustable Rate Mortgages and rate locks in today's environment when interest rates are rising. They can also show buyers how to get a lower mortgage interest rate by paying points to help them qualify.
      Next, write a script for price reductions. If you've been in the market for less than five years, you may never had a conversation with a seller about a price reduction! Talk with your seller about feedback to showing their home, or a lack of showing requests, price reductions for nearby properties and other realities of today's market. That paves the way for you to ask: "Based on everything we have discussed so far about your property and the fact that the buyers and the market have rejected our price, what would you like to do?" Then, remain silent and wait for them to respond. They will likely suggest a lower price and ask for your help.
      Have you used the same listing presentation for the last few years? Now is a great time to re-engage with your broker or manager to update your listing presentation. Update your marketing plan to include professional photography, brochures, flyers, digital ads, postcards, open house strategies. Sellers need to see that you'll do everything possible to get them the most money for their home in the least amount of time. Be sure you include the increasing inventory statistics in your presentations. Florida Realtors SunStats tool offers some valuable interactive data to include.
      Speaking of marketing materials, when was the last time you had a new headshot taken? Do your email blasts, business cards, flyers, postcards, listing presentation, logo, and digital marketing have a cohesive look and feel? If not, this could be a great time to do a marketing refresh.
      Finally, set up an intentional plan to reach your sphere. Consider time blocking to focus on specific activities. Also, get an accountability partner to help you. Take a customer to lunch or coffee weekly, attend a community event for a cause you are passionate about. 
Consider a Home Equity Review. Pull up a comprehensive market analysis on Realtor Property Resource or a program like Home Genius, and meet in person with past customers to discuss the value of their real estate. 
      When talking to people, remember the FORD questions — Family, Occupation, Recreation and Dreams. We do power hours twice a week in our company for calls, and it's a great way to have some accountability.
      Brush up on the fundamentals and get back to prospecting and marketing. Choose from these activities and others to set yourself up for success.