How to Become a Better Negotiator, second edition
By Richard A. Luecke and James G. Patterson
Amacom Books
$13.30 at Amazon.ca
This 98-page paperback lists the common characteristics shared by great negotiators and outlines different tactics for handling conflict, and when to use each one. It also includes ways to counteract the tactics of others, and how to deal with hostile and overbearing opponents.
The book has a series of quizzes to help readers sharpen their strengths and weaknesses at the negotiating table, as well as a discussion of common mistakes made during negotiations.
Realty Blogging
By Richard Nacht and Paul Chaney
McGraw-Hill
$16.75 at Amazon.ca
This book was released in 2006, which seems like a long time ago when you’re talking about Internet developments. However, the advice it offers to real estate professionals who want to set up a blog is still valid and updated at the author’s website, www.realtyblogging.com. You can also set up your own free blog via that site.
The book offers 10 strategic benefits that blogs can provide, along with case studies of sales reps who are effectively using blogs to increase their business. It also covers the benefits of using Intranet blogs for communications within your company or real estate association.
Do Your Own Home Staging
By Tina Parker
Self-Counsel Press
$17.44 at chapters.indigo.ca
Aimed at consumers who are getting their homes ready to put them on the market, this book comes with a CD-ROM that includes before-and-after room photos. The book and the CD also include a series of home improvement and staging checklists, providing quick ideas to help any property show better.
The book goes beyond staging ideas to provide practical advice for home renovations, energy-saving tips, good painting techniques, packing and moving tips, and even how to hire professionals including home inspectors and real estate agents. There are tips throughout from professional home inspectors throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Barron’s Real Estate Handbook, seventh edition
By Jack P. Friedman, Jack C. Harris and Barry A. Diskin
Barron’s
$31.67 at chaptersindigo.ca
At more than 400 pages, this textbook offers an A to Z real estate glossary with short definitions of real estate terms, house styles and parts and financing terms. It’s a U.S. publication, so you’ll find a listing for Fannie Mae but none for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. However, there is lots of information common to both countries, from the listing about urea formaldehyde foam insulation to the definition of a FSBO. There are also assorted forms and worksheets.
Note: Book prices and availability were accurate at press time but may change.
