This course delves into the advanced aspects of reverse mortgages, designed for professionals from various industries, including real estate, finance, and law. It covers specialized topics such as line of credit growth, tenure and term payment structures, and interest rate options. Participants will learn how to identify suitable candidates for reverse mortgages, present options effectively, and navigate regulatory frameworks. The course also highlights how reverse mortgages can be integrated into financial planning and retirement strategies. Real-life case studies, common borrower challenges, and practical solutions are discussed, ensuring professionals leave with actionable insights.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Provide a comprehensive understanding of advanced reverse mortgage features and their strategic uses.
- Equip professionals with the knowledge to effectively advise clients on reverse mortgage options.
- Address regulatory and ethical considerations in reverse mortgage transactions.
- Explore the integration of reverse mortgages into broader financial and retirement planning.
In an increasingly diverse and globalized world, cultural competency is not just a social virtue but a business imperative. The real estate industry, which is at the intersection of social interaction and business transactions, can greatly benefit from professionals who are culturally competent. This course aims to equip real estate agents, brokers, and other professionals with the tools they need to operate effectively in a multicultural marketplace.
Upon completion of this course, attendees will be able to:
- Describe what cultural competency is and why it's important in real estate
- Identify ways in which cultural differences can impact real estate transactions
- Learn strategies for effective communication and relationship-building with clients from diverse backgrounds
- Explain the legal requirements related to fair housing and nondiscrimination
This course is designed to deepen the understanding of ethical business practices in real estate. It provides insights into the code of ethics, ethical dilemmas, and how to navigate them.
- Understand the principles behind the code of ethics
- Identify ethical dilemmas in real estate transactions
- Describe strategies for resolving ethical issues
- Build trust with clients and colleagues through ethical conduct
With the rising demand for investing in real estate, agents are needed to mediate as investors look for their next flip. Investors that plan to flip and sell a property are common, but the transaction looks very different from the traditional buyer/seller situation. This course aims to educate the agent on the best strategies when working with investors so they can maximize the potential of the undervalued property being sold.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define what is an undervalued property
- Understand how undervalued properties a type of investment can be
- Dissect the significance behind statistics for house flipping
- Define what is a quick fix flip buying
- List and define the four real estate market conditions and how it affects the pricing of undervalued property
- Define what is a foreclosed, distressed property and normal homes
- Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of buying undervalued properties
- List and define the step-by-step role of the real estate agent in guiding investors for acquiring undervalued real estate properties
- List and define the advantages of having a real estate agent in buying undervalued property
When a homebuyer is anxious to find their perfect home, they will often setup viewings before being pre-approved for a mortgage loan; this can lead to many questions that a real estate professional might not be able to answer. The ability to answer these questions could make the difference in a sale going through or not. By taking this course, the real estate professional will become better educated on the loan programs that are available to homebuyers through the United States government. This will not only give them the ability to answer some of those questions, but also provide their clients with a list of resources for funding their perfect home.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Describe the various government loan programs that are available to homebuyers
- Briefly explain the history of loan programs with the United States government
- Understand how each government loan program changes the transaction process
- Answer client questions regarding what loan programs they might qualify for and where to access more information
This course aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how to handle properties with a haunted past. The goal is to enable real estate professionals to understand, manage, and market such properties effectively while ensuring legal and ethical compliance. It seeks to equip learners with practical tools and strategies, thereby adding a unique feather to their real estate cap.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Articulate the legal and ethical responsibilities involved in listing, marketing, and selling properties with a haunted or dark past.
- Describe how a property's haunted history impacts its market value and be able to effectively communicate these nuances to potential buyers.
- Utilize unique marketing and sales strategies tailored for haunted properties, learning how to convert a property's dark past into a unique selling proposition.
- Engage and network with other professionals in this unique field and understand the implications for their professional reputation.
This course aims to educate real estate professionals on the dangers of identity theft, including how to protect themselves and their clients. Sensitive information is passed between agents, buyers, sellers, lenders, and insurance companies; a leak of this information could lead to catastrophic damage in their life, ruining any chance they have of a successful real estate transaction. By educating professionals in the real estate industry of identity theft risks, they can better educate their clients on the warning signs, as well as work with clients who have been through identity theft in the past.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define and explain identity theft
- Analyze the impact of ID Theft in the US real-estate industry
- Cite and define the laws that govern realtors in the US
- List and enumerate ID Theft strategies used by criminals with corresponding solutions.
- Enumerate and answer the Frequently asked questions regarding ID theft for realtors
- Explain the first steps to take when you, or someone you know, suspects identity theft
- List and explain ways on how to detect identity theft in real-estate transactions
- Describe how identity theft affects real estate transactions
- Understand how to work with clients who have been victims of identity theft
- List and define the following common identity fraud situations
- Analyze each case study about real-estate ID Theft
This course is designed to educate real estate professionals on the concept of implicit bias and how it can impact their practice. The course will cover the definition of implicit bias, how it can manifest in the real estate industry, and how it can affect interactions with clients and colleagues. Participants will learn strategies for recognizing and addressing implicit biases in their own practice to promote equity and fairness in the real estate industry.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define implicit bias and explain how it can manifest in the real estate industry.
- Describe how implicit bias can impact interactions with clients and colleagues.
- Recognize their own implicit biases and identify ways to address them in their practice.
- Implement strategies for promoting equity and fairness in the real estate industry.
When analyzing the latest statistics, financial crimes, particularly dealing with mortgages, are one of the fastest growing areas of concern. Mortgage fraud involves making false statements on a mortgage application, thus, gaining approval from a lender under fraudulent pretenses. The real estate agent is tasked with guiding the buyer through the mortgage process, expecting factual and transparent compliance. Different schemes are arising in this type of financial felony and any misrepresentation can cause the agent to get involved with a crime, whether deliberately or not. Real estate professionals must be aware of the possible red flags that are evident in fraudulent transactions, and more so be willing to report them.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand why people commit a mortgage fraud
- List and define the different laws that govern mortgage fraud
- Define the term Mortgage Fraud
- Analyze statistics on Mortgage Fraud cases
- Compare and contrast the two types of mortgage fraud
- List and define the mortgage schemes under each category
- List and define relevant details in a document for fact-checking
- List and define possible red flags to check before engaging in a mortgage agreement with a client
- Identify possible preventive measures and solutions for real-estate mortgage fraud
- Illustrate through various examples the current trends in mortgage fraud
- List the steps an agent should take if they believe their client is committing mortgage fraud
This course provides a focused overview of Fair Housing laws and how they apply to daily real estate practice. Real estate professionals will learn about the history and legal framework of Fair Housing, understand what constitutes discrimination, and examine real-world scenarios to build practical skills for compliance. The course aims to help agents and brokers recognize risk, respond correctly to potential violations, and promote equal access to housing for all individuals.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Identify the protected classes under the federal Fair Housing Act and understand key state/local variations.
- Recognize common forms of housing discrimination in advertising, client interactions, and transaction practices.
- Analyze real-life scenarios to determine compliant and non-compliant behavior.
- Apply best practices to reduce risk and ensure Fair Housing compliance in their real estate business.
- Understand how to respond when clients or colleagues suggest actions that could violate Fair Housing laws.
This course equips real estate professionals with the knowledge and tools to navigate the evolving landscape of asset-based lending. Participants will delve into the intricacies of asset-based lending in real estate, exploring its applications, advantages, and potential pitfalls. Through interactive learning experiences, learners will gain practical insights into leveraging asset-based lending to enhance their real estate transactions and investments effectively in today's dynamic market.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define asset-based lending and its relevance in the contemporary real estate industry.
- Identify key assets utilized in asset-based lending transactions and their valuation methods.
- Evaluate the benefits and risks associated with asset-based lending for real estate professionals.
- Navigate the application process for asset-based lending, including eligibility criteria and documentation requirements.
- Analyze real-world case studies to understand the strategic use of asset-based lending in diverse real estate scenarios.
- Develop risk mitigation strategies to safeguard real estate investments when employing asset-based lending.
In an era where homes are becoming old and outdated, many individuals are wanting to build their dream properties rather than buy. It may seem easy to get a loan, pick out a design, and tell the builders to build it, but it isn’t that simple. This course examines the loan aspects of building a new home, from the approval process to the step-by-step requirements as the home is being built. How a new construction loan differs from a traditional mortgage is also discussed, along with the role of the agent in the entire process.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define what is a New Construction Loan.
- List and define the costs covered when you avail of a new construction loan.
- List and define the types of new construction loans.
- Compare and contrast new construction loan versus traditional mortgage.
- Analyze a construction loan example or case study.
- List the basic requirements when availing a new construction loan.
- Understand how the new construction loan amount is often calculated.
- List and define the step-by-step standard loan process for construction loans.
- Understand frequently asked questions for new construction loans
- List and explain tips on how to choose the right lender for a construction loan.
This course provides an overview of the use of reverse mortgages for purchasing homes, specifically focusing on the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage for Purchase (H4P) program. It is designed for professionals across various fields, including real estate agents, financial planners, accountants, and attorneys, to gain an understanding of how H4P can benefit senior homebuyers. The course covers the fundamentals of H4P, eligibility requirements, the loan process, and the pros and cons for clients, alongside marketing strategies for professionals advising potential clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define reverse mortgages for purchase (H4P) and understand its purpose.
- Identify the differences between traditional reverse mortgages and H4P.
- Explain the eligibility and requirements for using H4P, including age, property, and financial criteria.
- Outline the steps involved in the H4P process, from counseling to loan approval.
- Advise clients on the financial and lifestyle benefits of H4P, as well as considerations for their families.
- Implement effective marketing strategies to identify and advise potential clients on H4P.
This course covers how to manage risks in the real estate industry. Whether or not a realtor is independent, it is important for them to have a basic knowledge of business insurance as it relates to the real estate industry. Understanding and managing the risks with owning a small business is covered, along with the types of coverage available depending on the Realtors’ situation.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the risks Realtors face
- Identify the types of insurance Realtors must have
- Identify other types of insurance a Realtor should consider
- Explain why insurance is important for Realtors
- Explain the exclusions that Realtors need to be aware of
This course is designed for real estate professionals interested in understanding how the gig economy and the rise in remote work are shaping the real estate market. The course will explore the types of properties that are becoming more or less desirable, offer insights into shifting consumer preferences, and discuss strategies for real estate professionals to stay ahead of the curve.
By the end of this course, participants should be able to:
- Describe the fundamentals of the gig economy and its impact on the workforce.
- Recognize the influence of remote work on residential and commercial real estate.
- Identify the types of properties that are in increasing or decreasing demand.
- Implement strategies to adjust their real estate portfolios and advice for clients.
The Mortgage Loan Process can be very tedious. It is very important that a real-estate agent is fully aware of the step-by-step process. This is necessary to diligently guide the home buyer throughout the deal. It is very important for the house buyer and the real-estate agent to monitor and keep each other updated with the progress of a loan application. Each stage is very crucial and vital for the evaluation of a mortgage loan application. A real-estate agent must be knowledgeable enough to guide the home buyer throughout the mortgage loan process and align them with the expectations of buying a new home.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- List and define the steps that are included to increase the chances of getting a loan
- Enumerate the guidelines (or things to remember) before applying for a Mortgage Loan
- Cite the different requirements/ documents for each Mortgage Loan Process Stage
- Define what each stage are all about
- List and define the guidelines that must be met for every Mortgage Loan Process Stage
- Cite the elements that are needed for Mortgage Loan Applications
- Enumerate the tasks of a Loan Processor and Mortgage Underwriter, respectively
- List and define the sub-steps of an approved and closed loan
This course equips real estate professionals with an understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies, their applications in real estate, and strategies to ethically and effectively leverage AI in daily business practices.
1. Understand AI Fundamentals: Explain the foundational concepts of artificial intelligence (AI), its types, and its relevance in the real estate industry.
2. Identify AI Tools: Recognize key AI-powered tools available for real estate professionals in marketing, property analysis, and transaction management.
3. Enhance Marketing Strategies: Develop personalized marketing campaigns and generate targeted leads using AI technologies.
4. Streamline Transactions: Apply AI tools to automate document creation, contract management, and fraud detection, improving transaction efficiency.
5. Leverage Predictive Analytics: Utilize AI-powered predictive analytics to identify market trends and forecast property values.
6. Improve Client Experiences: Use AI technologies, such as chatbots and virtual assistants, to enhance customer support and provide personalized property recommendations.
7. Ensure Ethical AI Use: Address ethical concerns by avoiding bias in AI algorithms and ensuring compliance with fair housing regulations.
8. Protect Data Privacy: Implement best practices for safeguarding client information and adhering to data privacy laws when using AI tools.
9. Analyze Real-Life Applications: Evaluate real-world case studies to understand successful implementations of AI in real estate.
10. Prepare for Future Trends: Explore emerging AI technologies, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), and develop strategies to stay ahead in the industry.
TRID, or TILA/RESPA, took effect in 2015 for the purpose of harmonizing the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) and Truth in Lending Act (TILA) disclosures and regulations. Under this newer legislation, the degree of risk aversion increased, leading to the closing process becoming more tightly lender-controlled. Since RESPA and TILA have conflicting disclosures and procedures, NAR was able to add transparency, simplify disclosures, and reduce burdens to settlement service providers, including real estate professionals.
Upon completion of this course, the attendee will be able to:
- Identify the milestones in the history of TRID and how it came to be
- Analyze the points of NAR against or for TRID
- Define what is the Know before you owe rule
- List and define the necessary guidelines in buying a house in accordance with TRID
- List and define the Enforcement Procedures for RESPA violations
- Identify the FAQs for the TILA/RESPA Rule
- List and define loan estimate disclosures and the information required
- List and define closing disclosures and the general information on the form
- Understand the obligations under the TILA- RESPA Rule
- Understand the impact of TRID to real estate professionals
Foreign Investment in real estate property tax is a withholding tax issued to foreign sellers for US real estate purchases. It was enacted way back 1980. If the law applies to you, it is important to know the regulations, processes and forms needed to validate the purchase sell, as to avoid penalties. FIRPTA’s scope and limitations will be discussed in this module. It aims to guide the real estate agent in mediating between the US Internal Revenue Service and the foreign seller. This law imposes tax revenue to be remitted within 20 days after the closing of the purchase deal.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Analyze the pros and cons of the US real estate industry among foreign investors.
- Define and cite the importance of the FIRPTA Law.
- List and define the commonly used terms for FIRPTA.
- Understand the associated tax implications on the part of the advisors (e.g., real estate agent and investors) to efficiently maximize returns.
- Understand how FIRPTA works.
- Define what is US Real Estate Property Interest.
- List and define the scope and limitations of USRPI
- Defining the term “foreign person”, “Withholding Agent”, and Buyer’s Affidavit”.
- Cite an example on how to compute the FIRPTA withholding rate or charge.
- List and define the guidelines that should be followed to ensure the smooth flow of a FIRPTA application.
- List and define the required documents and forms needed by the investor and advisors.
- Cite the common questions and the corresponding answers regarding FIRPTA.
This course introduces reverse mortgages, specifically tailored to professionals such as real estate agents, financial planners, accountants, and attorneys. The course covers the fundamentals, including the types of reverse mortgages, the process involved, financial considerations, and potential risks. By the end of the course, participants will have a clear understanding of how reverse mortgages work, who can benefit from them, and the critical factors to consider when advising clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the definition, history, and purpose of reverse mortgages.
- Explain the different types of reverse mortgages and their key features.
- Identify eligibility requirements and describe the reverse mortgage process from application to closing.
- Evaluate the financial considerations, such as costs, fees, and loan repayment.
- Recognize the risks, responsibilities, and safeguards associated with reverse mortgages.
- Apply knowledge to real-world scenarios using case studies and examples.
This course is designed for real estate agents to deepen their understanding of wholesale lending and wholesale real estate transactions. The course covers key concepts, processes, legal considerations, and best practices, equipping agents with the knowledge to navigate and leverage these aspects in their professional practice.
- Define wholesale lending and wholesale real estate transactions.
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of the parties involved.
- Understand the processes and legal requirements for wholesale transactions.
- Recognize the benefits and risks associated with wholesale lending and transactions.
- Apply best practices to ensure compliance and successful execution of wholesale deals
The real estate market is rife with opportunities, but it also poses significant risks—one of which is vacant property scams. As a real estate professional, you have the responsibility to protect not only yourself but also your clients from falling prey to these scams. This course aims to equip you with the essential knowledge and tools to identify and mitigate the risks associated with vacant property scams.
By the end of this course, participants should be able to:
- Understand what vacant property scams are and their prevalence in the industry.
- Identify the red flags and common tactics used by scammers.
- Conduct due diligence to confirm the legitimate ownership of a vacant property.
- Take preventive measures to avoid falling victim to scams.
The US Department of Veterans Affairs offers home ownership programs that are exclusively available to active-duty military members, military veterans, and their surviving spouses. These programs come in the form of VA-backed loans that offer flexible terms and conditions, not often available with conventional loans. Real Estate professionals are an integral part of the real estate transaction and are not often familiar with how the VA Loan process differs from other loans available. This course covers the best practices for working with military clients, along with an in-depth understanding of VA-backed loan types, the VA loan process, and unique documentation that is required.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Define VA-backed home loan
- List and describe the types of VA-backed loans
- Differentiate between a VA-backed loan and conventional loan
- Review the home buying process for clients using a VA-backed loan
- Explain what documentation is required to obtain a VA-backed loan
- Describe the best practices for working with military clients
Credit scores a crucial component of the homebuying process, impacting everything from the size of the mortgage payment to the interest rate on a home loan. When it comes to credit, there is a lot to know, from how credit works and what a credit score means, to understanding different factors that affect your credit, not to mention the different credit bureaus. As a real estate agent, it is important to understand credit scores and how they can affect your potential clients.
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Explain the difference between credit scores and credit reports
- Understand factors that affect credit scores
- Understand steps to take to increase credit scores
- How credit scores affect mortgages
- Understand how credit scores play a large role in the homebuying process and how they can affect mortgages
1525 NW 102nd Drive
Coral Springs, FL 33071
Phone: 954-980-4757
www.academyforcommerciallending.com