Friday, August 25, 2017

A Real Estate Policies And Procedures Manual And Management Guides Are Good Business Communication Tools

By Sarah King


It is just good business for companies to have a written company philosophy and set rules and regulations for everyone to follow. Without them employees don't always know they have done something wrong and resent being singled out. All new workers should get a manual outlining the conduct that is expected of them. Real estate Brokers especially need a real estate policies and procedures manual and management guides in place.

Although you can choose to create your own policies and procedures manual, professionals have vetted the online versions to ensure the information is comprehensive and adheres to current laws. It is certainly possible to tailor the manuals for your particular business. Companies who work with salaried staff and independent contractors especially need to put company policy in writing.

The packages you purchase are normally divided into sections, many in loose leaf binders that make it easy to add pages and remove others that don't apply to your business. Many owners find the manuals that are written in bullet form or numbered points instead of wordy paragraphs are more efficient and effective. They all cover a wide range of real estate topics.

For realty businesses, it is very important that everyone who works for the company clearly understands the meaning of antitrust laws. Company policy regarding this subject should be at the front of your manual. If anyone in the company implies in any way that your commission structures meet area standards, or that they are charging the standard commission set by area companies, severe penalties and fines could result.

Companies with commissioned salespeople need to have very clear guidelines when it comes to how the company handles rates. The principle Broker can decide to lower a commission percentage if the purchase price exceeds a certain amount. The company may have a policy that sets a certain commission for commercial property sales and another one for residential property.

An office dress code can be tricky when you have independent contractors as sale agents. They may take the attitude that the policy does not pertain to them. With a written guide, you can make your point that they represent the company they work for, and this includes their appearance. Young, inexperienced workers sometimes have trouble deciding what is workplace appropriate. As much as you respect their right to express their individuality, you have a professional office to run.

Most salespeople hate to make cold calls or service calls to their current clients. If it is your policy that salespeople keep in regular contact with the clients whose property they have listed, your manual should say so. Managers who require salespeople to set aside a certain amount of time on the phone with potential clients should specify the particulars in writing.

It is good business to let employees, commissioned sales agents, and middle management know what is expected of them. It is better to have it in writing and available for everyone to read. As a manager and Broker your company image is one of your most important assets.




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