2025 October issue of InMaricopa Magazine

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The reform has also added stability for buyer agents. In the past, it was possible for an agent to spend weeks showing homes, only for a client to switch to another Realtor at the eleventh hour to write the offer. With signed agreements in place, agents can invest their time and expertise with confidence. It’s not about trapping buyers, it’s about setting clear expectations from the beginning. So yes, there’s a bit more paperwork upfront. But once those details are settled, the process looks remarkably familiar. Buyers are still touring homes, writing offers, and leaning on a buyer agent’s expertise to navigate negotiations. And sellers have come to terms with the fact that nothing has really changed with the amount of closing costs they will likely end up paying.

agent and would choose to work directly with the listing agent to write an offer, thereby rendering buyer agents obsolete. In reality, neither prediction turned out to be accurate. For sellers, the closing process has pretty much mirrored what the norm was before the settlement, meaning that they are still paying both Realtors. Out of all the transactions I closed since the settlement rules went into effect last year, every single one included an addendum for the seller to cover the buyer agent’s commission. Not once did a buyer have to reach into their own pocket at closing to pay their agent directly. There is one significant change that affects the way homes are sold today. Namely, before a buyer tours a property, they must sign a showing agreement with the Realtor stating how much the agent will be paid if they decide to purchase the home. This requirement has brought a new level of transparency. Buyers now know upfront what their agent is charging, and they have the chance to discuss it before they begin their search, rather than being told that their agent is getting paid “whatever amount is offered in the MLS”.

seeking help doesn’t mean giving up control. With Crest Premier Property Management, you remain involved in key decisions while leveraging a professional team to handle day- to-day management, marketing and support. This approach allows landlords to shift from reactive management to strategic oversight, reducing stress, protecting income and keeping investments performing well. By focusing on retention, enhancing proper- ty appeal, pricing strategically, staying proactive with maintenance and seeking expert support when needed, self-managed landlords can not only survive a renter’s market but also thrive. Contact Crest Premier Property Management today to learn how their flexible solutions can help you protect and grow your rental business.

W HEN THE BURNETT V. NATIONAL Association of Realtors case reached a $418 million settlement last year, some headlines made it sound like the homebuying process had been turned upside down. The expectation was that moving forward, sellers would only be responsible for compensating the listing agent, and buyers would compensate their own agent. Additionally, it was thought most buyers would not be able to afford to pay their New rules, same homebuying experience BY DAYV MORGAN

T HE RENTAL MARKET IS CHANGING, and landlords are feeling the impact. Longer vacancies, increased com- petition and higher expectations can quickly reduce profits and turn a previously steady investment into a full-time challenge. To succeed in this environment, landlords need to be adaptable, plan strategically and embrace new approaches. Here are five key adjustments to consider: 1 Focus on retention Keeping reliable occupants is far less costly than filling a vacancy. Losing one means advertising, lost rent and time-consuming screening — all while expenses continue. Maintaining open communication, responding promptly to repair requests and offering small incentives such as flexible lease terms or minor property upgrades can encourage longer tenancies and protect your bottom line. 2 Make your property stand out In a renter’s market, people have choices. Your property needs to be competitive and appealing. Affordable improvements like fresh paint, modern fixtures or enhanced landscaping can make a big difference. Professional-quality photos and clear, accurate listings help showcase your property’s best features and attract qualified applicants quickly. 3 Price with the market, not against it Holding out for top-dollar rent can backfire when the market favors those seeking housing. Research comparable properties in your area and price strategically. Sometimes 5 ways to survive a renter’s market as a self-managed landlord BY SHERMAN AND EUPHEMIA WEEKES

accepting slightly lower rent to fill a unit promptly is more profitable than months of lost income from an extended vacancy. 4 Stay ahead on maintenance Neglected repairs not only increase costs over time but can also drive people away. Regular upkeep, seasonal checks and proactive improvements protect your investment and signal professionalism and reliability — qualities that encourage long-term occupancy. 5 Get support Managing rental properties alone in a competitive market is challenging, but

Dayv Morgan is a Maricopa realtor and owner of HomeSmart Premier.

480-838- 9558 CrestPremierProperties.com 4625 S. Lakeshore Drive, Suite 300, Tempe

480-251-4231 DayvMorgan@gmail.com