As you go through this course, consider the real-life experiences with communication issues that you face on a daily basis. The single most important element of a smooth real estate transaction is effective communication.

Not that long ago, licensees worked mainly from an office and most often communicated with consumers face to face, by telephone or through the United States Postal Service. Offers were mailed out or faxed for initials and signatures, and it could take days to get a fully executed contract.

Technology advances have changed the way business is done. Offers can be emailed, electronically signed, and returned in a matter of minutes. A potential downside of this faster-paced transaction is a lack of thorough communication. Transactions involve numerous people, any of which may drop the ball and forget to pass along a message, submit a document, or set up an appointment. When everyone involved in a transaction keeps in contact with each other, chances are there will be a clearer understanding of that transaction and proper expectations.

A common thread found in the investigation of Real Estate Commission complaints is ineffective communication. Whether it be about appointed agency, disclosed dual agency, performance/service, earnest money disputes, incomplete property information, or other brokerage issues, communication is often a factor when an issue arises.