Tony Barrett directly addresses camera:  Professionalism in real estate. It's not a new topic. Most of the time, you hear that it's lacking in real estate. But saying this implies there are not great real estate professionals doing the right thing every day. 

I'm Tony Barrett, broker-owner of Barrett Realty in Sarasota. Let's take five minutes to talk about how professionalism begins with the broker. Agents without direction and mentorship will fail.

Raising the bar in real estate begins with systems and programs to give agents the tools they need to succeed. Here are some ways brokers can help agents raise the bar in real estate.

First, consider offering a mentorship program. Since education is  key to helping agents raise the bar, pairing an experienced agent with a veteran provides a way for agents to learn solid practices.

If your brokerage doesn't offer educational programs, brokers can still ensure agents get the education they need. Local, state and national Realtor associations offer programs and continuing education classes. The first one I recommend to all new agents is the Graduate Realtor Institute, or GRI. My local association also offers a Boost program, which teaches agents the basics of preparing comparatives market analyses, communicating with customers and common pitfalls in a transaction. In addition, the National Association of Realtors offers the C2EX. or Commitment to Excellence, endorsement. To become endorsed, you must complete different modules to understand the processes involved in a real estate transaction and the tasks to perform. Agents can take it online at their own pace. Instead of watching television each night, I spent a couple of hours going through the program and completed it in three months. Educate your agents about the number of designations available. These designations help make agents better and provide a significant value to customers.

Much of what I hear about raising the bar revolves around the contract and the lack of understanding of filling it out. The two types of residential contracts for sale and purchase have very different consequences for buyers and sellers. As a broker, consider working with a local attorney who can teach contract classes to your agents. You'll need to do this regularly, as the contract is too in-depth to learn in one session.

This is one of the only businesses where you collaborate and cooperate with a competing professional to get the job done. Agents must earn the reputation of someone who returns phone calls and text messages. Teach your agents that they create their reputation. In addition, there is a lot of jargon thrown around in our business. Communication is essential, so agents must recognize that buyers and sellers don't always understand the home buying and home selling process. For example, an agent told a buyer that the walk-through was scheduled for 5 p.m. on a Monday. When the agent showed up for the walk-through, the buyer wasn't there. When asked, the buyer told the agent that she didn't understand what a walk-through was or that it required her to attend. Communicate with customers in a way they can understand. 

Finally, the brokers with the most successful and professional agents give of their time. Be available to your agents. Take the time to offer insight, let them know you're available for questions. Keep your door open.

Remember, an educated agent is a professional agent. Encourage and offer mentorship and education, and you can raise the bar in real estate.