Dishin' Dirt with Gary Pickren

Send us a textWhether you know it or not, you are using AI every day in your real estate practice. So today I will examine the increasing role of AI in real estate but also examine the legal and ethical implications that comes with its use. Everyone should be embracing this technology like we did with the internet in the 90s and social media in the 2010s. But we also need to understand that the SC Real Estate Commission has already issued a guidance letter about legal problems that can arise through the use of AI.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textThe 'Pig Butchering' real estate scams to the Form 610, this podcast has it all. Today I educate you about the new real estate scam targeting agents as well as discuss why you should use a Form 610 on every transaction.  And as a bonus, I will discuss if we are turning into a buyer's market and what they could mean for your business this summer.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textShifting gears this week. I wanted a more upbeat episode after discussing legal matters for so many weeks.This week my guest is Rick Torrison who discusses the importance of mindset in the real estate industry. He explores the risks associated with being a real estate agent, the impact of limiting beliefs, and how to overcome them. Rick emphasizes the need for self-evaluation, challenging norms, and making positive declarations to achieve success. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding one's beliefs and how they shape actions and outcomes in both personal and professional life.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textReal estate agents are constantly under attack. One of the most common risks agents face is when something breaks in the house post-closing. Too many lawyers and buyers think the listing agent knew every possible defect that could have existed in the house. Currently, there are three major defenses that can be used when agents are sued. Today, I will highlight two significant court cases, McLaughlin vs. Williams and Isaac vs. Kopchinski, as well as the existing statutory protections that further shield agents from liability. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode I discuss the legality and ethics of including real estate commissions in contracts. I will clarify misconceptions surrounding commission payments, emphasizing that it is not illegal or unethical to include them in contracts. I also highlight the changes brought about by the Sitzer settlement, which affects how buyer agents are compensated. The conversation will underscore the fiduciary duty agents have to their clients and the importance of clear communication regarding compensation in real estate transactions.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textSouth Carolina REALTORs Association has issued new compensation forms with not one but two Form 120s and updated agency agreements in Form 130, 135 and 136. Today I examine those changes and what they mean for you.  Also, a new study by the Federal Reserve shines light on whether or not commissions have gone up or down since implementation of the Sitzer settlement.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textWe are heading fast into the summer selling season.  So today I am going to provide you a comprehensive analysis of the South Carolina real estate market. I will discuss various regions including Myrtle Beach, Greenville, Spartanburg, Sumter, and Columbia, highlighting trends in sales, inventory, and pricing. Also, an important update. Blair Cato has added its 9th Office in SC.  We are opening in Sumter in Hardee Cove on June 1, 2025!  Come see us for a Sumter closing.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textSummer Goralick is a compliance expert in the real estate industry. Summer and I discuss the importance of empowering investigators and regulators in the real estate industry, the proactive approach needed by real estate commissions, and the complexities surrounding private listings and fiduciary duties. We also discuss the recent challenges facing the industry, including the NAR settlement, broker compensation issues, and the impact of private listing networks. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency, compliance, and a unified approach to consumer protection in real estate practices. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textA MAJOR VICTORY FOR ALL REAL ESTATE AGENTS!!Today we discuss a significant ruling by the South Carolina Supreme Court that protects real estate agents from liability under the South Carolina Residential Property Condition Disclosure Act. The ruling states that there is no private cause of action against real estate agents under the Act allowing buyers to sue agents for the false or misleading statements of the Seller.  This ruling shifts the responsibility solely to property owners. This landmark decision is seen as a major victory for real estate professionals, providing them with much-needed protection in a challenging industry.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I discuss the recent controversies surrounding Private Listing Networks (PLNs) in the real estate industry. I examine the negative implications of PLNs on market transparency and consumer choice, while showing how the PLN primarily serve brokerage interests rather than those of sellers. Plus, breaking bad news from Britian that needs addressing immediately. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode, I discuss the importance of re-educating sellers in the real estate market, especially in light of recent changes concerning commission and the prevalence of fraud. I emphasize the need for real estate agents to redefine their roles, educate clients about fraud prevention, and effectively communicate compensation structures. The conversation highlights the necessity of updating listing presentations post Sitzer/Burnette to include these critical topics, ensuring that sellers understand the value of their agents and the complexities of real estate transactions.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textWe can't seem to get out of our own way. We want to continue to do the things that got NAR and your Brokerage sued.  We continue to do workarounds on compensation and try to steer sellers into giving more comp through Broker to Broker compensation. We need to change how commissions are handled. Stop doing the workarounds that could lead to legal trouble and understand the implications of steering in real estate transactions. The potential for future lawsuits is real if the industry does not adapt to new regulations and practices.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I answer the question as to whether or not you can still accept a seller bonus following the Sitzer/Burnett settlement. I will provide insight on the legality and realities of bonuses in real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of written agreements and the business justification rule for any amendments to compensation agreements. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textToday I discuss the critical topic of agency in real estate, focusing on the interference with agency agreements and its implications for agents and consumers under the law. The conversation centers on the legal obligations of agents, the consequences of interfering with agency during brokerage transitions, and the responsibilities of builder agents. Additionally, I give another short update on a new Clear Cooperation Policy proponent and emphasize how CCP in relation to agency laws protect consumers and helps prevent clients from cheating on their agents. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I discuss two issues. First, one of the lawyers from Sitzer/Burnette has stated publicly that he is coming for your JV agreements and any brokerage that encourages or compensation agents or brokers for pushing their ancillary products such as mortgage, title and insurance.  It is past time to take heed of this significant risk.Secondly, I examine the emergence of the American Real Estate Association (AREA) following the Sitzer/Burnett case. I evaluate the potential impact of AREA on the National Association of Realtors (NAR), emphasizing that while AREA may cause some challenges for NAR, it is not a direct threat. I also addresses the ongoing issues surrounding broker-to-broker compensation and the need for higher standards in real estate education and accountability. He concludes by advocating for a cooperative relationship between AREA and NAR, provided that both organizations prioritize the interests of real estate agents and consumers.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, Carl Medford and I discuss the current state of the real estate industry, focusing on the contentious issue of "Days on Market" and its implications for transparency and consumer protection. We explore the impact of recent lawsuits, the role of commissions, and the necessity of maintaining clear cooperation policies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of fiduciary duties and the need for integrity in real estate transactions, while also predicting future trends in the industry.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn part 2 of my conversation with Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty, we discuss if the current real estate model is broken beyond repair.  We also discuss Clear Cooperation Policy, broker-to-broker compensation and a lot of other challenges facing agents today. Leo shares insights on the challenges faced by agents and the importance of maintaining a cooperative real estate environment to ensure consumer protection and market efficiency. The conversation delves into the impact of recent settlements on the industry and the future of Multiple Listing Services (MLS).Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode, I interview Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty, discussing the current state of the real estate market following significant changes in compensation models and the implications of the Clear Cooperation Policy. Leo shares insights on the challenges faced by agents and the importance of maintaining a cooperative real estate environment to ensure consumer protection and market efficiency. The conversation delves into the impact of recent settlements on the industry and the future of Multiple Listing Services (MLS).Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textPART TWO of my interview James Dwiggins, CEO of Next Home Realty.  We continue this interview looking at the current threats facing real estate agents, the changing role of REALTORs, and the impact of technology on the industry. We will  spend a good part of the show discussing Broker to Broker compensation.  For last week's episode click here.https://www.buzzsprout.com/1378912/episodes/16555625Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I interview James Dwiggins, CEO of Next Home Realty, discussing the evolution of the real estate industry, the outspoken nature of leadership, and the importance of clear cooperation policies. Dwiggins shares insights on the current threats facing real estate agents, the changing role of REALTORs, and the impact of technology on the industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency and consumer protection in real estate practices, as well as the potential consequences of policy changes.  Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I discuss two critical issues in the real estate industry: the urgent need to eliminate broker-to-broker compensation and the alarming rise of the Green Mirage scam targeting homeowners. I address the legal risks associated with broker compensation and advocate for a more transparent commission structure that prioritizes client interests. Additionally, we discuss the Green Mirage scam which involves fraudsters impersonating mortgage lenders to steal money from unsuspecting homeowners. TakeawaysBroker-to-broker compensation is a legal risk that needs to end.The Green Mirage scam is targeting homeowners nationwide.Real estate agents must prioritize client fiduciary responsibilities.Transparency in commission structures benefits both agents and clients.Fear of steering is driving up housing costs.Scammers are using sophisticated tactics to defraud homeowners.Educating clients about scams is crucial for their protection.The real estate industry must adapt to avoid lawsuits.NAR should take a proactive stance on broker compensation issues.Agents should focus on negotiating commissions directly with clients.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this SPECIAL EDITION of Dishin' Dirt, I welcome Nick Kremydas, CEO of the South Carolina Realtors Association, to discuss the upcoming ATI exemption filing deadline and the importance of advocacy in the real estate industry. We delve into the NAR Advocacy Week, the significance of the ATI exemption for property owners, and the role of REALTORS in navigating tax issues for their clients. The conversation emphasizes the need for REALTORS to stay informed and proactive in advocating for their clients' interests, especially in light of changing tax laws and property assessments.TakeawaysNAR Advocacy Week highlights the importance of REALTOR advocacy.The ATI exemption helps property owners manage tax increases.REALTORS should inform clients about filing for the ATI exemption.Advocacy efforts can lead to significant changes in tax laws.The deadline for filing the ATI exemption is January 31st.REALTORS play a crucial role in navigating tax processes for clients.Understanding property tax classifications is essential for REALTORS.The value of REALTOR organizations extends beyond their members.Tax reform is a priority for the South Carolina legislature.Effective communication with clients can enhance REALTOR value.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I discuss the Top 10 predictions for changes to the real estate market in 2025, including the future of clear cooperation, changes in broker compensation, and the importance of REALTOR Association. He also touches on the impact of TikTok and AI in real estate, as well as some fun sports predictions for the year ahead.TakeawaysClear cooperation will survive despite challenges.Broker to broker compensation is likely to end soon.The real estate market is expected to grow significantly in 2025.REALTOR associations are crucial for navigating industry changes.TikTok has potential value for real estate marketing.AI will revolutionize various aspects of real estate.The importance of adapting to new technologies is paramount.Predictions for sports events reflect a mix of hope and humor.Changes in REALTOR membership requirements are on the horizon.The real estate industry must adapt to ongoing pressures and legal challenges.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textIn this episode of Dishin' Dirt, I discuss the Top 10 Real Estate Stories of 2024, including the significant Sitzer/Burnette settlement, the impact of fluctuating interest rates, ongoing challenges faced by the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), and changes in broker compensation structures. The episode also covers updates from the Real Estate Commission, new regulations on wholesaling, and the growing popularity of South Carolina as a relocation destination. Additionally, I reflect on the podcast's milestones and future plans.TakeawaysThe Sitzer/Burnette settlement significantly changed commission structures.Interest rates fluctuated between high sixes and low sevens in 2024.NAR continues to face challenges from lawsuits and member dissatisfaction.EXP's decision to end broker-to-broker compensation is a pivotal change.New regulations on wholesaling require real estate licenses for wholesalers.The Real Estate Commission made significant updates to state laws.Clear cooperation rules are essential for fair housing and equal access.South Carolina is the top state for relocation, boosting real estate opportunities.Dishin Dirt celebrated its 200th episode and won a Webby Award.The podcast aims to provide ongoing value to its listeners.Chapters00:00Introduction to Dish and Dirt Podcast03:58Top 10 Real Estate Stories of 202508:49Impact of Interest Rates on Real Estate11:52NAR Challenges and Changes15:54Changes in Broker Compensation18:55New Touring Agreement Regulations20:19Ending Wholesaling in Real Estate23:22New Statutes and Regulations24:14Clear Cooperation Rule Under Attack26:26South Carolina's Real Estate Boom28:11Celebrating Dish and Dirt's MilestonesDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.

Send us a textWhat are the so-called experts predicting for the housing market in 2025? Today, I will shed light on the anticipated changes in home sales, mortgage rates, and inventory. Join me as I dive into the expert opinions and trends that will impact homeownership, providing valuable insights for real estate professionals and aspiring buyers alike.Some key points I will discuss:• Predictions point to a potential increase in home sales ranging from 2% to 12% • Mortgage rates forecasted to stabilize around 6% with gradual declines • Inventory levels are expected to improve, alleviating pressure on prices • Home prices anticipated to rise modestly between 2% to 4% • Significant shifts in buyer demographics and financing methods emergingGET YOUR REAL ESTATE SUCCESS SUMMIT 2025 TICKET HERE!https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1118986592019?aff=oddtdtcreatorDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Send us a textWe have a special announcement for our dedicated listeners.  For perhaps the first time ever, Blair Cato has created a new program for Spanish first language clients that will allow the client to speak Spanish with the law firm from contract to the closing!  Most Spanish speaking consumers only get Spanish communications at closing through a translator or an attorney who knows a little Spanish. Blair Cato wants the communications to be from beginning to end. You and your clients can reach Sonia in Spanish at espanol@blaircato.com and 803 881-6903.The best news is this is a STATEWIDE service!Gary

Send us a textWe close out another year and begin a new in 2025.  But before we do so let's review the year that was 2024 in real estate.  I am going to look back at what the so-called experts said would happen in real estate in 2024 and then discuss what actually did happen. I will look at interest rates, inventory, prices and much more.  GET YOUR REAL ESTATE SUCCESS SUMMIT 2025 TICKET HERE!https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1118986592019?aff=oddtdtcreatorDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

Sitzer/Burnett was not the end of the legal threats to the real estate profession.  In 2025 real estate licensees will face other threats that could derail and upend the industry and the way you practice. Today I examine what former Dishin' Dirt guests, Darryl Davis and Carl Medford, think are the biggest issues legal issue and threats that real estate agents are facing.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

We continue to walk through the ever-changing landscape of the so called "Touring Agreement" with updates on Ketchmark's and the DOJ's comments to the court and what they could mean for the future of executing the agreement before showing a house. Plus, additional updates on FINCIN and Wholesaling. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.     

So you thought all your worries and risk for anti-trust issues were resolved by the Settlement. Well, think again.  The DOJ is now saying the Touring Agreement is anti-trust yet Ketchmark says if you don't do one, he will come for you.  What do you do now?  And that is not all, five new terms about the settlement just got released.  All your workarounds are now against the settlement!Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

I was out of town and missed this month's Real Estate Commission hearing but a lot of big things happened. The REC released a Guidance Letter on what is considered wholesaling according to the plain language of the statute and how that statute would be applied to advertising that is currently happening in the marketplace.  Additionally, I have some updated information on the "Touring Agreement" that was issued and pulled back. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

**** EPISODE 200!!!!!!**** Thank you! Thank you!FinCen is some really scary stuff.  The federal government under the guise of "stopping money laundering" is requiring every business entity to provide information on all parties involved in the ownership, formation and control of the company.  This act is arguably unconstitutional. But if you have a company or if any of your client's do then you must report the information before the end of the year. Blair Cato's, Marshall Minton steals my Mic today to tell you all about it.BOIR Steps - Revised.pdfDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.    

We are seeing such a mess with broker compensation. Contracts and Form 120s are all over the board. Seller, buyer, agents, lenders and closing attorney can't decipher what the intent is on some of these.  It is an unmitigated disaster. Today, we talk about how easy this should all be and how to handle broker commissions moving forward.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Kyle Toomey recognized that in order to catch someone's attention on social media you had to be quick and entertaining. Thus, he perfected the running real estate agent phenomenon.  In doing so he garnered millions of views and thousands of likes and created a social media following that directly and indirectly exploded his business.  Listen to his tips on creating that following and buzz.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Clear cooperation is the next area of your practice under attack by lawyers and the DOJ.  Today I discuss what clear cooperation is, who supports it, who doesn't and the potential risk to ending the practice.  Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Last week, the South Carolina Real Estate Commission issued a guidance letter that addresses substantive contact, the South Carolina Disclosure of Brokerage Relationship and the NAR Settlement.  Does these revised documents now fulfil the NAR Settlement requirement for a Touring Agreement. Listen to learn more!Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Last week, Blair Cato stopped two potential real estate frauds that could have cost the buyer hundreds of thousands of dollars.  Erica Lybrand, our title attorney, joins me today to discuss these two frauds, what Blair Cato did right, what the real estate agent did right and what lessons can be learned.  Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

There continues to be massive numbers of people without power in the Upstate and even here in the Midlands of South Carolina. Today I discuss what agents need to know on how lenders and insurance companies may treat closings moving forward this week.  Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

I have had many conversations with Realtors who espouse their anger over how things are being run at NAR. In fact 62% of Realtors in a national poll have stated so.  Today I offer Ten "suggestions" for NAR that will help it suck less.  In providing this list it is done with a belief that NAR is probably the only group standing between you and the morons in the government screwing you more.  And it is also done with a belief in the value of SCR and the local associations. Let me know what your thoughts are. Hopefully NAR will start to make the necessary changes to win back its members. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

One of the biggest complaints of real estate agents since the settlement is the requirement to get a touring or showing agreement signed prior to showing the buyer a house.  Luckily for you the Real Estate Commission may have solved that issue for you. I examine that ruling as well as the status of three other issues that have been a rallying cause for licensees.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

We are only a few weeks into the new compensation rules and agents are already greatly screwing it up all over the place.  Today, I will walk you through how compensation is supposed to work in the ERTS, the Form 120 and the contract.  You need to listen carefully and take notes so you don't make the same terrible mistake that a lot of agents are making which just might get you sued!  Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

As we enter the second full week of the implementation of the settlement, I began getting many calls for me to draft an Exclusive Right to Sell Agreement that is NOT broker to broker compensation.  Brokerages have already started to recognize that the traditional system of broker to broker compensation is not only on the endangered list but is also a liability nightmare.  Therefore, I have now drafted an open-source ERTS document for the industry. The CMLS has already put this document on their website and emailed a copy of the document to everyone.  CMLS Version: ERTS Contract CMLS VERSION.docxOpen Source Version: ERTS Contract Open Source VERSION.docxDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

I have been warning agents that the NAR Settlement was just the beginning of this.  More lawsuits and government intervention would soon follow. Today I discuss a $3.29 million settlement/fine involving real estate agents and title insurance. I actually applaud this settlement as a positive step forward for the consumer.  If you are doing these schemes you need to stop now or face massive fines and possible class action lawsuits!Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Now that we are a week or so into the new rules on real estate compensation, we need to discuss how your commission might be shown on the settlement statements. Direct compensation, concessions and broker to broker commission most likely will be handled differently and you need to know what to look for on the ALTA. I also will discuss what documentation you might need to provide the closing attorney and the lender.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

The settlement went into full effect and force today. With that comes many new problems and requirements for the real estate agent.  Today we attempt to resolve two of these problems for you. The first problem we resolve is the crazy idea that you should rescind your agreements and enter into new agreements. The second problem is the touring agreement requirement.Take a listen at what we are trying to do for the real estate agent.Link to FORMAGENCY AGREEMENT AMENDMENT AND DISCLOSURE.docxDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Two things are 100% expected. You will always have to pay taxes, and the national media is a joke.  They lie and obfuscate.  They work an agenda and allow half-truth and inuendo to take over. Moreover, there is zero intellectual curiosity in the media. That just spout talking points and never examine the issue to see if the points are truthful.  Case in point, the LA Times has already issued a "news story" making all kind of ridiculous claims that are unsupported. Of course, chief among these is that the price of houses "could" go down as a result of the settlement.  I will expose the media bias and lack of investigation on today's episode.  Also, what do you do with your existing agreements? Blair Cato may just have the solution for you.Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Everyone is on edge about broker compensation. How do we handle it through Form 120? Why can it not be done in the contract? What about all of the issues with concessions?  On Monday I published my discussion on all of these issues with Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty.  Afterward he and I discussed my thoughts on how it should have been handled. He then asked if I had looked at his Seller Toolkit because it was exactly what I was suggesting.  I have to say I was blown away. It may very well be the model we all need.  Listen to hear why.Here are the documents which are Open Sourced (Meaning available for use by anyone). I have Leo on tape saying so!www.exptoolkit.com/sellerDon't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

A lot of rumors are swirling about how August 17 will play out for agents. One of the biggest rumors is that eXp Realty agents will no longer do broker to broker compensation.  Leo Pareja, CEO of eXp Realty, joins me in this special edition of Dishin' Dirt to set the record straight and discuss how compensation will be handled August 17 and moving forward. All agents need to hear this!Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Can buyer broker agent compensation be included in a buyer's offer? Does including it in the contract violate the NAR settlement or South Carolina license law? Today we find out for good. Also, I examine the changes to the Exclusive Right to Buy and Exclusive Right to Sell that SCR has published. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

Another week and even more confusion.  Today we take a further look at the two avenues for a real estate agent to get paid compensation post August 17.  We will try to answer when and how to use the compensation agreement versus contract concessions. Plus, is procuring cause dead? Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area. 

The new MLS and REALTOR rules from the commission settlement are set to begin on August 17. There is so much confusion still in the industry.  I did this podcast and added to it twice after I recorded it. So yes, I am confused too.Today we look at the South Carolina REALTOR Association's revised contract and compensation form to see what we will be dealing with in just a few short weeks. Don't forget to like us and share us!Gary* Gary serves on the South Carolina Real Estate Commission as a Commissioner. The opinions expressed herein are his opinions and are not necessarily the opinions of the SC Real Estate Commission. This podcast is not to be considered legal advice. Please consult an attorney in your area.