Tag: AI property descriptions

OpenAI says it’s working on AI that mimics human voices

by Mariam El Hadary

Ayman Alashkar, Founder & CEO of overwrite was on Dubai Eye 103.8 , he highlighted the urgent need to address the threat of deep fake misinformation.

Reflecting on recent events, Ayman Alashkar highlighted the spread of deep fake misinformation in the Chicago elections last year, where a candidate’s voice was synthesized using advanced technology just before the vote. Are we to now expect similar malicious acts in the Democratic voting systems of these countries? That represents 4 billion people. Ayman Alashkar stressed the importance of people being able to recognize and address fake news, urging policymakers to develop strategies to counter its influence on electoral processes.

By Clare Duffy, CNN

OpenAI has unveiled a new artificial intelligence tool that can mimic human voices with startling accuracy. The AI voice generator has a range of potential applications, including for accessibility services, but could also prompt concerns about misinformation and other forms of abuse.

OpenAI on Friday shared samples from early tests of the tool, called Voice Engine, which uses a 15-second sample of someone speaking to generate a convincing replica of their voice. Users can then provide a paragraph of text and the tool will read it in the AI-generated voice.

An AI-enabled text-to-voice tool could help with translation, reading assistance for children or aiding people who have lost the ability to speak, the company says. But some skeptics worry it could also fuel the creation of disinformation or make it easier to perpetrate scams.

OpenAI says Voice Engine is currently being used by only a “small group of trusted partners,” including education and health technology companies, and it will use their tests to determine whether and how to allow more widespread use. Those testers have agreed not to recreate people’s voices without their explicit consent and to clearly identify to listeners that what they’re hearing is AI-generated, according to the company.

“We recognize that generating speech that resembles people’s voices has serious risks, which are especially top of mind in an election year,” OpenAI said in a blog post. The company acknowledged the need for major changes as AI-generated audio becomes more widely available, although it doesn’t plan to release Voice Engine to the public immediately. For example, the company suggested phasing out voice-based authentication for bank accounts.

“Any broad deployment of synthetic voice technology should be accompanied by voice authentication experiences that verify that the original speaker is knowingly adding their voice to the service and a no-go voice list that detects and prevents the creation of voices that are too similar to prominent figures,” OpenAI said.

Voice Engine can use a voice sample in one language to create a replica voice that can speak in multiple other languages.

Its blog post includes an example of an audio clip of a human reading a passage about friendship, alongside AI-generated audio that sounds like the same person reading the same passage in Spanish, Mandarin, German, French and Japanese. In each of the AI-generated samples, the tone and accent of the original speaker is maintained.

Click here for audio samples from OpenAI that show how Voice Engine works. The first audio clip is the real human speech that was used was the input for the tool.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of overwrite.ai and its owners.

This story has been published from an article in CNN published on April 2024.

For informative news and views on the world of real estate, proptech and AI, follow overwrite on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog

overwrite | real estate content creation, reimagined

UN adopts first global AI resolution

by Mariam El Hadary

The United Nations has moved to protect our Human Rights from Artificial Intelligence.

If you haven’t caught up on the latest news, Last Thursday, The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence.

The non-binding resolution, proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations, took three months to negotiate and also advocates strengthening privacy policies, the officials said, briefing reporters before the resolution’s passage.

The resolution is the latest in a series of initiatives — few of which carry teeth — by governments around the world to shape AI’s development, amid fears it could be used to disrupt democratic processes, turbocharge fraud or lead to dramatic job losses, among other harms.

“The improper or malicious design, development, deployment and use of artificial intelligence systems … pose risks that could … undercut the protection, promotion and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms,” the measure says.

Asked whether negotiators faced resistance from Russia or China — UN member states that also voted in favour of the document — the officials conceded there were “lots of heated conversations. … But we actively engaged with China, Russia, Cuba, other countries that often don’t see eye to eye with us on issues.”

“We believe the resolution strikes the appropriate balance between furthering development while continuing to protect human rights,” said one of the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

In November, the US, Britain and more than a dozen other countries unveiled the first detailed international agreement on how to keep artificial intelligence safe from rogue actors, pushing for companies to create AI systems that are “secure by design.”

Europe is ahead of the United States, with EU lawmakers adopting a provisional agreement this month to oversee the technology, moving closer to adopting the world’s first artificial intelligence rules. The Biden administration has been pressing lawmakers for AI regulation, but a polarised US Congress has made little headway.

The White House sought to reduce AI risks to consumers, workers, and minority groups while bolstering national security with a new executive order in October.

Like governments around the world, Chinese and Russian officials are eagerly exploring the use of AI tools for a variety of purposes. Last month, Microsoft said it had caught hackers from both countries using Microsoft-backed OpenAI software to hone their espionage skills.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of overwrite.ai and its owners.

This story has been published from an article in Khaleej Times published on March 2024.

For informative news and views on the world of real estate, proptech and AI, follow overwrite on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog

overwrite | real estate content creation, reimagined

Agent’s Guide: Top House Selling No-No’s

by Mariam El Hadary

This is a list of things real estate agents should never say to their clients.

1. You Have Horrible Taste

Agents often face challenges with sellers who refuse to alter their unique decor choices, like an extensive collection of taxidermied cats. While taste is subjective, staging a home neutrally tends to attract more buyers and potentially lead to higher sale prices, instead of criticizing their taste.

Say This Instead:

You have a beautiful collection of stuffed cats. It is so meaningful and important to you. However, we might have potential buyers who are allergic or may miss their dear departed cats. They will spend the whole time looking at your cats, thinking about their cats, not your lovely property. Let me show you some simple things we can do to stage your home that might even bring a higher sales price! 

2. Call Me Anytime, 24/7

As an agent, maintaining open communication with clients is essential, but setting unrealistic expectations of being available at all times can lead to frustration and burnout. Balancing professional responsibilities with personal commitments is crucial for long-term success and well-being.

Say This Instead:

You can commit to top-tier customer service. You can promise to return all emails and texts within one business day. You can pledge to monitor messages and respond promptly and regularly. You can also introduce your clients to a fellow team member or assistant who can step in if you are unavailable. You can deliver the best customer service in your area in many ways without sleeping with your phone. 

3. I Only Make Money if You Buy a House

Real estate agents should avoid saying they only get paid when clients buy a house, as it can create undue pressure. Recent commission lawsuits highlight the confusion surrounding agent compensation and their value. Agents should take the opportunity to clearly articulate the various roles they play in helping clients find their dream home.

Say This Instead:

If asked how you make money, be careful not to answer by assigning any responsibility to your clients. Rather, point to the many services you provide. Make sure they understand commission but do so in a way that ensures they never feel like they are responsible for you keeping your lights on at home. Even if they are.

4. Your Dream Home Doesn’t Exist

Avoid telling clients that their dream home doesn’t exist, as it can crush their hopes and aspirations. Many buyers are influenced by media portrayals of ideal homes and may have unrealistic expectations. Instead, agents should navigate compromises with sensitivity and understanding, acknowledging the challenges of the current market and managing client expectations accordingly.

Say This Instead:

I understand that these not-granite countertops make you want to gouge your eyes out with pruning shears, but countertops are replaceable and are easier and cheaper than you think. Let’s look at some cosmetic changes that can make this house (the one that checks every other box) your dream home. 

5. You’re Delusional

I’m guessing you may have said this in your head many times to different clients about different issues. After all, any time you work with people, there will be a time when there’s a difference of opinion. For example, agents might want to call a client delusional when they submit a low-ball offer.

They say, “I know it’s listed at $380,000,” they say, “but let’s go in at $290,000 and just see what happens.” You’ll be tempted to respond, “You’re delusional.”

Say This Instead:

Instead of questioning their ability to reason, you’ve got to lean on your numbers and their emotions. Explain how the comps make the listing price pretty accurate. While there might be room for negotiation, a basement-level low offer will sour the relationship from the outset. The sellers might not even counter, cutting off further opportunities for negotiation. In a seller’s market, those lowballs aren’t going to get it done (highest and best should be the order of the day). Try to suss out if they really want the home, and if so, how badly. And is it worth making a realistic offer to get it? 

Agents must refrain from making insensitive remarks, even in challenging situations like viewing homes with unconventional decor. Instead, they rely on diplomacy and persuasion to guide clients effectively. By offering tactful feedback and professional advice, agents can help clients prepare their homes for sale successfully.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of overwrite.ai and its owners.

This story has been published from an article in The Close published on February 2024.

For informative news and views on the world of real estate, proptech and AI, follow overwrite on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog

overwrite | real estate content creation, reimagined

Is your phone listening to you?

by Mariam El Hadary

Have you ever had a conversation on your smartphone, only for your newsfeed to shortly thereafter show you unsolicited ads and articles relating to what you’d recently spoken about?  

The phenomenon of content targeting based on private conversations, has sparked widespread debate. 

Could our phones be actively listening to us, using microphone data to tailor content in breach of privacy settings?

Uncover opinions behind the debate. Learn what you can do to improve your privacy protection. Tune in as Ayman Alashkar, Founder & CEO of overwrite.ai, teams up with Zeena Zalamea and Sonal Rupani on Dubai Eye 103.8 for a captivating discussion.

Ayman recounted numerous occasions where he experienced this phenomenon. One memorable instance he shared involved a conversation with a friend about rugby scrums. Watch what happened.

To his surprise, his phone seemingly intercepted the conversation, as ads related to software development scrum methodologies began appearing on his feed within moments. It was clear that his phone had been listening. And if that wasn’t bad enough, it had misunderstood the context entirely.

These instances not only confirm the active listening capabilities of our devices but also highlight their tendency to misinterpret our conversations.

So what can you do to improve your smartphone’s privacy settings?

Anybody that wishes to take their privacy and security seriously, should regularly review their app permissions every 6 months. Decide which permissions they’re comfortable granting to apps. Some apps may overreach for data that they have no business wanting. Stay vigilant and consider uninstalling apps that request excessive permissions. This proactive approach helps enhance smartphone privacy settings.

Here are some useful tips on how to manage app permissions on both iOS (iPhone) and Android devices.

The debate surrounding whether our phones are eavesdropping on our conversations remains highly controversial, with numerous publications such as The Washington Post weighing in on the matter. However, what becomes evident is that there are arguments supporting both perspectives.

Now, the question remains: Do you believe our phones are actively listening in on our conversations, or is it all just speculation?

For informative news and views on the world of real estate, proptech and AI, follow overwrite on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog

overwrite | real estate content creation, reimagined

It’s For SALE, Stupid! An Estate Agent’s Story

by Mariam El Hadary

Every real estate agent has encountered their share of challenging Clients, each presenting unique hurdles to overcome.

Take a look at this story shared by a real estate agent in the USA.

Phone Rings. 

I answer.

A guy is calling from a listing sign, and he doesn’t know where he is. 

He can’t read the agency name — he blames the sign — and he can’t describe the property for crap. He starts getting really impatient with me, but I finally get enough information to McGyver his location by intuition and the hard science of assuming he’s looking at one of our cheapest listings because of his demeanor. I am right, and after I answer his basic questions about the home’s layout, this conversation ensues.

Caller: “How much is the rent? I’m interested in making it my home.”

Me: “Sir, the house is not for rent. You can only buy it.”

Caller: “Well, that’s dumb. Why did you put the sign here, then?”

Me: “I’m not the agent listing the house. [Agent] is out of the office, but the sign clearly says, ‘For sale,’ with the number to get assistance right away.”

Caller: “That’s why I called. I want the house, and I’ll pay rent on time.”

This goes around and around, with me using analogies comparing buying versus leasing in other situations like cars and equipment. Trying to make him understand makes it worse.

Me: “If you really like it, I will have an agent get in touch with you to show you the inside and explain the buying process. Remember, though, it can’t be rented. The owner only wants to sell it.”

Caller: “Look, idiot, I know this may be hard for you to understand, but I just want to rent it. I think I can come up with the $130,000, but I need to know what the rent will be after that. It shouldn’t be hard for an educated person to figure out.”

I once again try to explain loans, mortgages, and buying a home.

Caller: “So, what happens after I come up with the money? I won’t get a loan like you tried to sell me on; that sounds like a scam, and I don’t want to pay rent to a bank. What will I be paying per month, and who do I pay it to?”

Me: “So, you’re wanting to buy the house for cash? And now you want an estimate of the monthly costs? Is that right?”

I start pulling up Excel to estimate closing costs and taxes.

Caller: “Yes, finally, you understand. I need to know what the rent will be.”

Me: “That is not called rent. Those are monthly expenses, not rent. If you pay cash to buy the house, you won’t have a rent payment; you’ll be the home’s owner. You’ll only pay the taxes and utilities if you occupy it, and you’ll have to pay closing costs and title insurance.”

Caller: “So, you mean if I pay cash, I won’t pay rent? Just that other stuff? What about cable?”

Me: “That’s up to you. Nobody is forcing cable on you.”

Caller: “This sounds great. Tell me more. This will be cheaper than I thought.”

Me: “Is this a joke? This is [My Boss], right? You’re hazing me or something?”

Caller: “I have no idea what you’re talking about. Back to cable…”

Me: “You can hire a company to mow your lawn, get a satellite dish, or anything you want as long as it’s not illegal or against neighborhood rules. It’s your house to decide what services you want.”

Caller: “Those are great ideas. And I’m going to rent this house. You are smarter than I thought. God bless you, son. Jesus loves you. Praise the Lord, I can retire!” *Hangs up*

In this story lies a reflection of the challenges and triumphs that define the daily lives of real estate professionals and it serves as a reminder of the importance of patience, communication skills, and adaptability required to guide clients through the intricacies of property transactions.

This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of overwrite.ai and its owners.

This story has been published from Not Always Right on July 2023.

For informative news and views on the world of real estate, proptech and AI, follow overwrite on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog

overwrite | real estate content creation, reimagined

Listen In: Top Real Estate Podcasts 🎧

by Mariam El Hadary

From Bloggers to Vloggers to Tik-Tokers, the real estate industry has ridden every social media wave. But this week, we’re diving into the world of Podcasts. While it’s not the freshest face in the crowd, savvy agents are turning to this medium in growing numbers and unlocking the secrets of success in the ever-evolving real estate world.

1. Dubai Property Podcast

Dubai Property Podcast provides you valuable information about the real estate market in Dubai. Including property investment, property management, market trends, legal requirements, and comprehensive information if you are looking to buy or sell property in Dubai, as well as for real estate agents and investors.

Continue reading “Listen In: Top Real Estate Podcasts 🎧”

Knowing your Client’s Personality type is your Secret Weapon

by Charlotte C.

Ever wished that you could read your client’s mind and be one step ahead of them?

Understanding the way your client thinks is your secret weapon to bringing home that sale. 

We reveal the 4 most common personality types and the clues that could help you sell to them, better.

Getting inside their minds

Experts believe that individuals are wired to make purchasing decisions, based on their personality type. Which type is your client?

1. The Leader

This client type has come prepared; they did their research, and know exactly what they’re looking for. Super motivated, they have no time for small talk, wanting to cut to the chase. They’ll make decisions quick and generally don’t have the time to deal with sales people. Be on your toes, this personality type will be the one to walk into the home, take one look around, and sign the very same day. They’ll equally walk away in an instant if you pussy-foot around.

How do you sell to the Leader?

Tune in to these behaviours quickly, or risk losing them to a competitor. If they’re a Leader type, remember they need freedom to do just that, so let them lead the conversation, and to a degree, stay out of their way. Do not hand-hold (we’re not talking literally during viewings, although that’s equally not advisable!) and give them space to absorb the product, until they’re ready to ask questions.

2. The People Person

Common traits of this client type include them being talkative, easily excited and often extroverted. Their number one need is to connect with the sales agent. As the name suggest, they’re “people-people”, and value a personal touch, so stay close (and then close).

How do you sell to the People Person?

Tip 1: Do not be pushy! Drop the sales pitch, turn off “sales mode” and turn on “relationship mode”. These customers are people-oriented, so create an environment free of confrontation or pressure. 

“They enjoy the journey, have time to talk, want to get value from your expertise in the sales process, and value your knowledge in helping them make a sensible investment or find their dream home. Reinforce their beliefs, be a great listener, be available, be “with them” and support them. If you master this type and serve them really well, they’re going to be a walking, talking, billboard for you. Put lots of business cards in their hands.”

Tap in to key personality types

3. The Free Spirit

The Free Spirit is fun-loving and likes to have a good time. They’re extremely independent and are risk-takers. They are open to ideas, won’t mind being thrown a curve ball, but will be turned off by slick, rehearsed sales routines. They like to be in control of how and when things get done, so you could be in for an exhilarating but rocky ride.

How do you sell to the Free Spirit?

Get excited and celebrate with them! They’re creative people so make the sales approach equally exciting and celebratory, not boring and stale. Offer something they haven’t yet considered yet; you never know with this personality type just what might trigger that decision to buy.

4. The Task Master 

The Task Master will be your most challenging personality to deal with. They are punctual, meticulous, structured, and very detail-oriented. They are the total opposite of the Free Spirit. Dependability and reliability are their biggest needs in dealing with a sales agent.

How do you sell to this Task Master?

They are cautious and need reassurance, so going in full throttle won’t work. Don’t try to pressure-sell them; they’ll just shut down. They’re going to listen to every piece of information, so make sure it’s 100% on point. 

And be prepared for them having to “think about it” even after numerous conversations. The technique here is to have great follow through, stick with the plan, and unlike the Free Spirit, do not throw them any curve balls. Be dependable, and do what you said you were going to do. Eventually, your credibility and trust will win them over before the final purchasing decision. 

Know yourself, too

Knowing as much as you can about your client, as quickly as you can, will be a game changer. This is as close as you’ll get to being inside your customer’s brain and know what they’re thinking, so you know what your next move is. 

Yet, even armed with all this knowledge, you must also know your own personality or sales style. This will enable you to adapt your natural behaviours and manage their expectations. You’ll need to shape the relationship along the way if you want to establish effective communication.

As you get more confident, you can begin to adjust yourself, and integrate your understanding of your own personality into the sales process.

But with any human interaction, no amount of self awareness or clever second-guessing of their verbal or visual cues, will be of use if the foundations aren’t set around honestly and integrity. 

For informative and light-hearted news and views on the world of real estate, follow overwrite.ai on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog.

overwrite.ai | the AI writing assistant for estate agents | Sign up for your Free 7 Day Trial.

Tune In, Turn Up: Top Real Estate Podcasts

by Charlotte C.

Social media marketing has engulfed the residential real estate business, providing a 24/7 reality show reel of real estate agents and their antics.

First Bloggers, then Vloggers, and now Tik-Tokers. It seems as though every agent has their finger in one or more social media pie, promoting themselves and their listings to a worldwide, property-hungry audience. 

This week we’re talking Podcasts. They’re not the newest medium on the block. But they’re what growing numbers of savvy agents are turning to.

Continue reading “Tune In, Turn Up: Top Real Estate Podcasts”

Instagram Marketing Hacks For Estate Agents

by Charlotte C.

People go to Instagram to see beautiful things. You know this. That’s why you’re already advertising your beautiful property listings there. 

According to research by Smartly.io, a staggering 50% of marketing teams spend half of their marketing budgets on social ads. But not everyone can afford to spend the big-bucks on Insta marketing. So, how can you navigate through the social media minefield and generate actual leads, on a bootstrapped budget?

We’ve put together a list of Six Sizzling Hacks that will level-up your Instagram marketing, at no extra cost.

Continue reading “Instagram Marketing Hacks For Estate Agents”

Zillow’s $300m House-Flip Flop

by Charlotte C.

Picture this. It’s 2020. It’s the height the lockdown. You’re stuck at home in the small hours of the night. You’re longing to escape the boredom. There’s only one thing for it. Flip open your laptop and indulge in a guilty pleasure: Property Porn. The habit of obsessively scrolling through property listings.

Continue reading “Zillow’s $300m House-Flip Flop”

The Worst Real Estate Dad Jokes

by Charlotte C.

Everyone loves to secretly chuckle at some old-fashioned, cringe-worthy Dad jokes. 

Just to clarify – if you want to hear the punchline, but you’re simultaneously cringing with embarrassment at the person telling them, then congratulations, you’re in the presence of a Dad joke.

Let’s enjoy a little light-hearted real estate humour with some of our worst real estate dad jokes…

Continue reading “The Worst Real Estate Dad Jokes”

Buying Property with Bitcoin: Would you? Should you?

by Charlotte C.

For years now, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies have been a hot topic in finance. But they’ve recently hit the headlines within the real estate industry.

The first property to be bought with Bitcoin in the UK was back in 2017. A trickle of transactions took place afterwards in pioneering markets like Dubai. However, since the COVID crisis, Crypto-commoditised property transactions have begun increasing sharply, on a global scale. 

Job redundancies triggered by the pandemic, saw many people turn to crypto trading as a source of income. Now we’re seeing these investors shift their profits into one of the world’s safest assets; real estate.

The escalating value of cryptocurrencies has also created a greater willingness by property vendors to accept Bitcoin and its ilk as a form of transaction currency. This in turn has unlocked the opportunity for crypto-investors to crystallise their profits, trading out of the volatile asset class, and into stable property assets.

Young Guns

It’s not just sophisticated traders that’ve got in on the action. Real Estate Agents have reported rapid recent growth in young property buyers. Those early adopters who, marginalised by the global economic shocks of recent years, have profited from coin trading, are now diversifying their holdings.

This group of young crypto-slinging millionaires are emerging as a new wealthy class, breaking the conventional real estate order.

The allure of this new swathe of property buyers has in turn attracted a new breed of seller. Those who want to keep their options open and get in on the action, are increasingly using the “Accepting bitcoin” USP, and broadening their investment appeal.

So, as crypto-buying property becomes more common, let’s dive into some buyer pros and cons…

The Pros…

Profit

Trading out of cryptos and into real estate gives investors the opportunity to quit while they’re ahead. Cryptos are a notoriously volatile asset class, not for the feint-hearted. Investing in real estate allows crypto-traders to lock in their profits, and inflation-hedge their wealth, safe in the knowledge that property, unlike Cryptos, will never fully depreciate in capital value.

Diversification

Smart investors know to never put their eggs in one basket, and many of those who have profited from cryptocurrency are considering real estate purchases to diversify their portfolio. Why real estate? Because it’s an asset generally considered one of the safest in the world.

Utility

Property gives crypto-traders the chance to shift their wealth into an asset that has greater practical application. They can either live (or work) in their property, or lease it out and derive income from it. Real estate delivers universal utility in a way that cryptos simply don’t.

…and The Cons

The Opportunity Cost of FOMO

When they rise, coin values rise much faster than real estate. By cashing in their crypto coins for real estate, buyers could miss out on future coin value appreciation.

Scarcity

Granted…crypto transactions are on the rise. But the number of sellers accepting crypto is still relatively small. The coin-purchasable property options available to would-be buyers are limited, a fact they simply have to live with, for now.

Taxation

Because it is unregulated, dealing in cryptocurrency can be a tax headache. To avoid running into trouble with the law, those looking to exchange crypto for real estate should consult an experienced certified accountant who understands the ins and outs of cryptocurrency trading in the specific subject property’s jurisdiction.

Let The Music Play 🎵

It’s safe to say that the cryptos are becoming mainstream, with more and more people joining the conversation about their suitability and appeal. This potentially giant disruptor in the real estate industry is, for many, an exciting development. But let’s not forget how famously volatile they are.

We’ve all seen their values skyrocket from an Elon Musk tweet, and similarly plummet from a central banker’s statement. They are not underwritten by any fundamental asset, and for this reason they could just as easily be worth triple today’s value in a year from now, or worth nothing at all.

There is little wonder that there are many sceptics, and rightly so. In addition to regulatory challenges like China’s recent blanket ban, tax issues and price volatility, there is the notorious affiliation that cryptos have with with criminal activity, in particular money laundering.

In the end, it comes down to each individual’s knowledge and risk-appetite. For my part, I’m long enough in the tooth to know that opportunities always come around. I’m not phased by FOMO. I’m happy to wait and watch until cryptos are more mainstream, and I have more information to base my decisions on. Until then, let the music play.

Ayman Alashkar is the Founder and CEO of overwrite.ai, with 20 years’ experience working in real estate, banking and artificial intelligence. An AI Implementation Strategist accredited by the prestigious MIT in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Ayman also has a Bachelors Degree in Mathematics from the world-renowned Queen Mary College, University of London, and a Masters in Real Estate Investment and Development from the University of Reading (UK).

OVERWRITE.ai is a world first, user-friendly marketing solution that allows estate agents to instantly autowrite unique, search-optimised property marketing content, taking the boring out of the daily grind. 

For informative and light-hearted news and views on the world of real estate, follow OVERWRITE.ai on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog.

2021’s Top Reads for Aspiring Estate Agents

by Charlotte C.

The post-covid property boom has seen a tidal wave of new estate agents joining the industry, looking for a slice of the pie. But for those who are new to the game, learning the ropes can be a minefield.

A mentor is great. A supportive agency with a sound training scheme is even better. Getting a grip, early on, of real estate principles, finance and law will undoubtedly create a solid foundation for success. Nevertheless, investing time in learning the practical aspects of being a “real life” estate agent, can mean the difference between success and failure.

You’ll be surprised at just how many simple “tips and tricks” will have you saving time, avoiding tyre kickers, winning bidding wars, or knowing when to spot a deal breaker.

And this week, we’ve done what we do best at OVERWRITE.ai HQ – the leg work, so that you don’t have to.

We’re bringing you the top 5 books for aspiring real estate agents, all of which provide an insider’s perspective on becoming a successful real estate agent.

#1 The Miracle Morning for Real Estate Agents

There’s something to be said about starting every day on the right foot and Hal Elrod is all about this. The Miracle Morning for Real Estate Agents will talk you through the exact morning routines of the industry’s top players. Certain habits may seem trivial, but carried out consistency over time will reap rewards.

#2 The Millionaire Real Estate Agent

Gary Keller’s The Millionaire Real Estate Agent is about taking your real estate career to the next level. But it’s an important read early in your real estate career because it forces you to see the big picture and think long-term.

This book will give you a millionaire agent mindset. First you’ll learn how to think like a millionaire. Then you’ll learn how to become one through real estate sales.

#3 The Book of Yes

No one likes to cold call. But if you’ve ever had to make these, you’ll probably know that it helps to have a script in mind. Author and multi-million dollar real estate agent, Kevin Ward swears by the belief that real estate sales is largely about scripts. He’s spent his career perfecting them.

The Book of YES: The Ultimate Real Estate Agent Conversation Guide will teach you exactly what to say in order to nail that ice-cold sales call.

#4 The Honest Real Estate Agent

Mario Jannatpour’s The Honest Real Estate Agent is a perfect introduction to the real estate industry. From topics like networking, negotiations, time management, basic marketing and professional integrity, this title covers a lot of ground in attempting to explain what the real estate profession is all about.

The Honest Real Estate Agent explains what’s required to be successful in the industry. And you can use that information to confirm that real estate is the right career move for you.

#5 The Million Dollar Listing Social Media

Many of today’s new agents are surprised at just how much business is done online via social media. Whilst you needn’t be a “social media expert” it is fast becoming part of the job description for real estate agents. Buyers and sellers are online. So you need an online presence that will engage them.

Check out Sebastian Acosta’s The Million Dollar Listing Social Media: The Ultimate Social Media Marketing Guide for Real Estate Professionals. It’s probably the most comprehensive book on the topic but there’s no harm in getting comfortable with this minefield, even before you’re officially licensed.

More To Life…

Let’s be honest, this is merely the tip of the literary iceberg. There’s hundreds of best-selling books that can help estate agents hone their skills.

And you’ll be surprised – many of these habits, designed to make agents better at their jobs, will actually set you up for success in every area of your life. Because even for agents, life is about more than just real estate.

OVERWRITE.ai is a world first, user-friendly marketing solution that allows estate agents to instantly autowrite unique, search-optimised property descriptions, taking the boring out of the daily grind. 

For informative and light-hearted news and views on the world of real estate, follow OVERWRITE.ai on Instagram and LinkedIn, and keep up-to-date with our weekly NewsBites blog.

The Evolution of the Social Media Influencer

by Ayman A.

Love them or hate them, social media influencers are very much part of today’s mainstream marketing mix. When Facebook suffered their hours long outage last week, it was widely reported to have cost the social network upwards of $100 million dollars in lost revenue. The service disruption impacted the company’s stock price, which fell by 4.9 percent last Monday – that’s a whopping $47.3 billion in lost market cap.

The pain didn’t end at Mark Zuckerberg. As a result of what has been named the “Great Social Outage of 2021”, the business of thousands of others haemorrhaged at the hands of Mark’s monumental technical “glitch”. Social media influencers worldwide were rendered helpless for the entire time that FB’s universe was offline, their hands literally tied at the mercy of the technical boffins at Facebook HQ.

So how do influencers, brands and marketers future proof their sales strategy? And what’s next for Influencer Marketing?

Continue reading “The Evolution of the Social Media Influencer”

The Ten Most Common and Cringe-worthy Real Estate Typos 😖

by Charlotte C.

Everyone makes typos. Even the best writers can do it. And plenty of us suffer dyslexia. But when real estate agents are entrusted to sell properties worth millions of dollars, there really is no excuse for not paying attention to the smallest detail. Especially with the range of technologies out there that can help.

Some blunders you simply can’t ignore. The ones that cause clients to doubt an agent’s professionalism, and reflect poorly on the agency they represent. These typos are very awkward because they are so very public.

One place where these awkward misprints are usually found is in a property’s public listing description.

Continue reading “The Ten Most Common and Cringe-worthy Real Estate Typos 😖”