Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

October Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in October for classes including:

Top Ten Contract Addenda
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE.
Join us to review 10 of the most commonly utilized TREC contract addenda including Third Party Financing Addendum, Addendum for Backup Contract and more.
October 3rd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Death, Divorce & Real Estate
Join us to learn important laws surrounding death and divorce such as separation, homestead issues, community property and probate.
October 10th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
3322 Dorado Beach Drive, Farmers Branch 75234

Appraisal + Underwriting
Come hear a panel of appraisal experts discuss appraisal reports. Covering topics like collateral underwriting challenges, successes, and industry technology changes.
October 17th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Brookside at Fields Amenity Center

Tips on Hosting an Awesome Open House
Holding an open house is a great way to showcase a new listing and attract prospective clients. In this course, agents will learn the maximize their open house opportunity and learn how to promote the property, generate leads and practice good safety while on the job.
October 22nd
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Zoom

Know Your Market Data & Trends
Successful agents thrive by understanding their local markets inside and out. Whether you’re in a casual meeting, a listing presentation, or engaging on social media, having the ability to produce accurate and insightful market reports is crucial. Join us in this class, “Know Your Market Data and Trends,” where you’ll learn how to generate current and relevant monthly and annual statistics using the various tools available through NTREIS.
October 22nd
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Republic Title North Dallas Office

Maximize Productivity with ChatGPT: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide
Teaching real estate agents to use ChatGPT can improve their overall effectiveness and efficiency in serving clients. Come to this class to learn the many ways ChatGPT can help you create better listing descriptions, social media posts, scripts for videos & blogs, ad copy and so much more.
October 23rd
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Southlake

Sowing Success: Farming with Realist Tax
Elevate your local market expertise with our deep dive into Realist® Tax, a powerful tool within your NTREIS Matrix dashboard designed to give you the knowledge and skills needed for effective farming and marketing strategies!
October 24th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

It’s All Foreign to Me
This class will cover many areas of a transaction involving a non-US citizen including Foreign Investors Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), Foreign Wills, Mexican Matricula Consular and Foreign Acknowledgments.
October 29th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Death, Divorce & Real Estate
Join us to learn important laws surrounding death and divorce such as separation, homestead issues, community property and probate.
October 30th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Prosper Office

Capture More Clients
Agents will be shown the various tools and landing pages available in the NTREIS MLS system that could be used to attract more business and help generate leads from buyers and sellers.
October 30th
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco Office

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

September Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in September for classes including:

Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks
Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks!
September 3rd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Dodging Contract Danger Zones
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE
This class focuses on specific sections within the TREC 1-4 Family Contract and other related contract forms that licensees should have a clear understanding of in order to steer clear of potential challenges.
September 11th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Selling Out of an Estate
Join us to learn the requirements for selling real estate if title is held by an estate or there has been a death of a seller.
September 12th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Free Tools to Supercharge your Marketing
Check out our curated list of the real estate marketing resources you can start using today to supercharge all your marketing efforts, without emptying your bank account.
September 17th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Economic Update
Join Republic Title and Prime Lending for an Economic Forecast where we will discuss how mortgage rates are set and where they are going, how the Fed’s actions affect mortgage rates, the National/Texas/Dallas County Real Estate Market and Economic Trends.
September 17th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Park Cities

Lease Purchase, Just Say No!
This class provides a detailed overview of issues surrounding Lease Purchase Options such as required disclosures, obligations, contracts, financing and enforceability. Being aware of potential complications can prepare a licensee to thwart potential lawsuits.
September 18th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Know Your Market Data & Trends
Successful agents thrive by understanding their local markets inside and out. Whether you’re in a casual meeting, a listing presentation, or engaging on social media, having the ability to produce accurate and insightful market reports is crucial. Join us in this class, “Know Your Market Data and Trends,” where you’ll learn how to generate current and relevant monthly and annual statistics using the various tools available through NTREIS.
September 18th
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco

Sowing Success: Farming with Realist Tax
Elevate your local market expertise with our deep dive into Realist® Tax, a powerful tool within your NTREIS Matrix dashboard designed to give you the knowledge and skills needed for effective farming and marketing strategies!
September 19th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Statutory Tax Districts and Disclosures
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE
Throughout this course, participants will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the significance of disclosing information related to statutory tax districts and public improvement districts. They will be instructed in the most effective methods for identifying whether a property falls within such districts and will become familiar with the appropriate disclosure forms to utilize.
September 24th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Step Up Your Instagram Game
In today’s real estate market, Instagram marketing is essential to showcasing who you are and connecting with your sphere. Are you ready to take your Instagram to the next level? Join us in this class for a complete guide to Instagram including ways to enhance your bio, tools for creating great content, how to target and attract buyers and sellers, and much more!
September 25th
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Republic Title Prosper

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

August Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in August for classes including:

Backup, Contingent & Multiple Offers
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE
This class will prepare licensees to handle the unique aspects of backup, contingent and multiple offer transactions by reviewing pertinent TREC addenda along with critical dates and deadlines.
August 6th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Is This Homestead and Why do Title Companies Care?
Homestead rights can be very confusing! This class will help licensees understand how the State of Texas views homesteads and what factors influence the title company’s underwriting decisions.
August 14th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

The REALTORS® Playbook to RPR®
Attend this class for a play by play of the best REALTOR® tools available…“RPR®”. RPR® will increase credibility with your clients through the use of numerous data sources so you can research and create attractive reports, which will help set you apart from the rest. Learn to research properties, create attractive reports, create a CMA and tons more.
August 20th
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Escape Hatches for Buyers
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE
In this class licensees will become familiar with specific conditions & contingencies within the contract and related addenda that, if not adhered to, could result in a Buyer’s valid termination of the contract.
August 21st
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Build a Better CMA using Cloud CMA
If you don’t stand out, you don’t stand a chance! Cloud CMA helps you build a better Comparative Market Analysis report that includes interactive presentations that win more listings, provides a lasting impression and builds trust. Join us in this class to learn how to search for comparables in Matrix, review the Buyer Tour/Property/Flyer Tabs, explore the Automatic Reports features, and more.
August 22nd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks
Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks!
August 28th
11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Republic Title Prosper

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

July Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in July for classes including:

Top Ten Contract Addenda
Join us to review 10 of the most commonly utilized TREC contract addenda including Third Party Financing Addendum, Addendum for Backup Contract and more.
July 10th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Creative Financing Pitfalls in a High Interest Rate Market
All licensees must be prepared to handle aspects of special types of financing. This class focuses on the specifics of alternative types of financing such as Seller Financing, Loan Assumption, and Lease to Own and discusses types of financing to avoid.
July 11th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy

TREC & Texas Realtor Form Changes
NEW TEXAS REALTORS® FORMS!
Join us for a review of the new and updated forms available in the Texas REALTORS® forms library starting June 24, 2024
These updates are in response to the proposed NAR Settlement and aim to:
• Ensure compliance with MLS policy changes when utilizing Texas REALTORS® forms
• Enhance clarity and transparency in broker compensation practices
• Allow for flexibility in accommodating different business and compensation models
July 11th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Elevate Your Marketing Magic using RPR
Are you ready to transform your real estate marketing game and captivate your audience like never before? In this cutting-edge course, we reveal the true power of RPR®’s (REALTORS PROPERTY RESOURCE ®) marketing resources and AI-driven features that lie beneath the surface. Discover how to harness market trends and data insights to craft captivating social media videos and graphics that command attention.
July 18th
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Pro Secrets: Mastering Matrix
This course is designed to empower REALTORS® with advanced competencies in utilizing the Matrix MLS system, going beyond basic functionalities to explore deeper features that can significantly boost their efficiency and productivity.
July 23rd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
July 24th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

June Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in June for classes including:

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
June 6th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Advanced zipForm® Tips and Tools
Would you like to maximize efficiency within your zipForm® transaction? Join us to learn all of the newest tips and tools to elevate your transactions and streamline workflows. Advanced technology meets practical simplicity in this advanced demonstration.
June 11th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Escape Hatches for Buyers
In this class licensees will become familiar with specific conditions & contingencies within the contract and related addenda that, if not adhered to, could result in a Buyer’s valid termination of the contract.
June 11th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
6299 Revere Pl, Dallas 75214

Dodging Contract Danger Zones
This class focuses on specific sections within the TREC 1-4 Family Contract and other related contract forms that licensees should have a clear understanding of in order to steer clear of potential challenges.
June 12th
9:30 am – 10:30 am
6747 Winton Street, Dallas 75214

Dodging Contract Danger Zones
This class focuses on specific sections within the TREC 1-4 Family Contract and other related contract forms that licensees should have a clear understanding of in order to steer clear of potential challenges.
June 13th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Maximize Productivity with ChatGPT: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide
Teaching real estate agents to use ChatGPT can improve their overall effectiveness and efficiency in serving clients. Come to this class to learn the many ways ChatGPT can help you create better listing descriptions, social media posts, scripts for videos & blogs, ad copy and so much more.
June 13th
12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Republic Title Prosper Office

Dodging Contract Danger Zones
This class focuses on specific sections within the TREC 1-4 Family Contract and other related contract forms that licensees should have a clear understanding of in order to steer clear of potential challenges.
June 18th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks
Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks!
June 25th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

May Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in May for classes including:

Escape Hatches for Buyers
In this class licensees will become familiar with specific conditions & contingencies within the contract and related addenda that, if not adhered to, could result in a Buyer’s valid termination of the contract.
May 8th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco Office

Pricing Properties using RPR® CMA
RPR®’s CMA offers REALTORS® a distinct advantage in the marketplace. Join us to learn RPR®’s RVM (REALTOR® Valuation Model) and Refined Value section, along with how to make adjustments on the value of the home based on improvements, local market conditions, interior and exterior conditions, and so much more.
May 9th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Dodging Contract Danger Zones
This class focuses on specific sections within the TREC 1-4 Family Contract and other related contract forms that licensees should have a clear understanding of in order to steer clear of potential challenges.
May 9th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title North Dallas

Maximize Productivity with ChatGPT: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide
Teaching real estate agents to use ChatGPT can improve their overall effectiveness and efficiency in serving clients. Come to this class to learn the many ways ChatGPT can help you create better listing descriptions, social media posts, scripts for videos & blogs, ad copy and so much more.
May 13th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title North Dallas

Traps and Pitfalls for Licensees
This class draws attention to the issues most likely to cause problems for licensees in a real estate transaction including real estate fraud, missing effective date in the contract, ‘practicing law’ and more.
May 15th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Backup, Contingent & Multiple Offers
This class will prepare licensees to handle the unique aspects of backup, contingent and multiple offer transactions by reviewing pertinent TREC addenda along with critical dates and deadlines.
May 16th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks
Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks!
May 16th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
121 Shoreview Drive, Rhome 76078

Capture More Clients
Agents will be shown the various tools and landing pages available in the NTREIS MLS system that could be used to attract more business and help generate leads from buyers and sellers.
May 21st
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
May 22nd
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Republic Title Southlake Office

Death, Divorce & Real Estate
Join us to learn important laws surrounding death and divorce such as separation, homestead issues, community property and probate.
May 23rd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Plano Allen

Residential Education | REPUBLIC TITLE

Couple standing in front of their new home. They are both wearing casual clothes and embracing. Rear view from behind them. The house is contemporary with a brick facade, driveway, balcony and a green lawn. The front door is also visible. Copy space

Republic Title Answers Your Questions on Recent Changes to Homestead Exemptions 

Homestead exemptions are a form of property tax relief provided to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence.

In the ever-evolving landscape of property taxes, understanding the intricacies of exemptions can significantly impact homeowners.  Recent changes to the Texas Constitution and the Tax Code have impacted homestead exemptions and how Central Appraisal Districts (CADs) handle those exemptions.  

In this post, we will be discussing what homeowners need to know about Proposition 4, which increased the amount of the homestead exemption resulting in significant savings for Texas homeowners, and recent modifications to the Texas Tax Code requiring all CADs to verify a property owner’s eligibility to continue to receive their homestead exemption.

What is a Homestead Exemption?

Before diving into the changes, let’s clarify what homestead exemptions entail. Homestead exemptions are a form of property tax relief provided to homeowners who use their property as their primary residence, also known as their homestead. These exemptions reduce the taxable value of a property, resulting in lower property taxes for eligible homeowners.

Recent Changes in Texas Tax Code

In Texas, where property taxes are a significant revenue source for local governments, any amendments to the tax code draw attention. The recent changes to Section 11.43 of the Texas Tax Code require the CADs to put procedures in place to confirm, once every five years (at a minimum), that homeowners still qualify for their homestead exemption.  It is important to note that this change may require homeowners to reapply for the homestead exemption or to provide documentation to continue to receive the benefits.  

If a homeowner receives a letter from the CAD regarding the need to reapply for a homestead exemption, or to provide additional documentation, it is vital that the homeowner provided that information before the deadline stated in the letter.  Failure to do so may trigger the loss of the exemption and any other related property tax exemptions resulting in a higher tax bill.

Proposition 4

Proposition 4 was a constitutional amendment overwhelmingly approved by Texas voters in November 2023 that increased the amount of the homestead exemption from $40,000 to $100,000.  This means eligible homeowners can now enjoy greater reductions in their property tax burdens, providing welcome relief amidst rising property values and tax rates.

How to Apply For The Homestead Exemption

Understanding how to apply for a homestead exemption is crucial for Texas homeowners looking to benefit from property tax relief. While the process may vary slightly depending on the county, here are the general steps to follow:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for homestead exemptions in Texas. Generally speaking, you must own and occupy the property as your primary residence on January 1st of the tax year in which you apply for the exemption.  In some instances, it may be possible for a homeowner to apply for the homestead exemption immediately upon acquisition of the property.  If you have questions about when you may submit your application for a homestead exemption, please contact your local CAD.
  2. Gather Required Documentation: Collect the necessary documents required for the application process. This typically includes proof of ownership (deed or contract), proof of residency (driver’s license or voter registration listing the property address as your home address), and any additional documents requested by your local CAD.
  3. Complete the Application Form: Obtain the homestead exemption application form from your county’s appraisal district or download it from their website. Fill out the form accurately and completely, providing all requested information. For a list of North Texas CADs, visit Republic Title’s blog
  4. Submit the Application: Once you’ve completed the application form and gathered all necessary documentation, submit them to your county’s appraisal district by the CAD’s specified deadline. Most counties allow you to submit the application by mail, in person, or online, but those options may differ by county.
  5. Follow Up: After submitting your application, follow up with the CAD to ensure that they have received it and that there are no additional requirements or steps needed to process your application.
  6. Monitor Your Property Tax Bill: Once your homestead exemption application is approved, you should see the reduced exemption amount reflected on your next property tax bill. Monitor your tax bill to confirm that the exemption has been applied correctly.

The standard homestead exemption is just one of many exemptions in Texas. Other exemptions include the Disabled Veteran Exemption, Over 65 Exemption, Agricultural Exemption, and Disabled Individual Exemption. For more information on these exemptions, visit Republic Title’s website.  

By staying informed about the homestead exemption application process in your county, you can take advantage of the property tax relief available to Texas homeowners and maximize your savings. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out to your county’s appraisal district or consult with a tax professional for guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.

Additionally, when navigating real estate transactions in North Texas, partnering with a trusted title company such as Republic Title can streamline the process and provide assurance. With our extensive experience and expertise in handling real estate transactions, Republic Title is the preferred title partner for North Texas real estate transactions. Our dedicated team is committed to delivering exceptional service and ensuring smooth and successful closings for our clients.

Source: Republic Title Answers Your Questions on Recent Changes to Homestead Exemptions  – CandysDirt.com

 
Class-Calendar-Blog-Header

April Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in March for classes including:

Advanced zipForm® Tips and Tools
Would you like to maximize efficiency within your zipForm® transaction? Join us to learn all of the newest tips and tools to elevate your transactions and streamline workflows. Advanced technology meets practical simplicity in this advanced demonstration.
April 2nd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

TREC Legal Update II
Material mandated by TREC: Legal Update II covers a host of topics that TREC has deemed critical for all licensees to be familiar with, including fiduciary and ethical duties of the agent, guidance on dealing with water and mineral rights, and important updates to tax laws and rules.
April 3rd
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Lakes at Castle Hills

What To Expect From A Home Inspection
1. What an inspector does and does not inspect
2. Common defects or safety issues found in the home
3. How to prepare your clients for the home inspection
4. Limitations for a home inspection
5. Optional services that are offered
April 4th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title North Dallas Office

TREC Legal Update II
Material mandated by TREC: Legal Update II covers a host of topics that TREC has deemed critical for all licensees to be familiar with, including fiduciary and ethical duties of the agent, guidance on dealing with water and mineral rights, and important updates to tax laws and rules.
April 9th
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Republic Title Uptown Office

Instagram Reels for Real Estate Agents
If you’re looking to connect with more buyers and sellers while growing your brand, then Instagram Reels could be for you. Reels is a powerful way to cast a larger net to grow your followers and to showcase your listings to a wider audience. In this course you will learn the quick and easy steps to create a reel and given examples of content ideas so you can get started today.
April 9th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
April 10th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
622 Carroll Drive, Garland 75041

Maximize Productivity with ChatGPT: A Real Estate Agent’s Guide
Teaching real estate agents to use ChatGPT can improve their overall effectiveness and efficiency in serving clients. Come to this class to learn the many ways ChatGPT can help you create better listing descriptions, social media posts, scripts for videos & blogs, ad copy and so much more.
April 10th
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Republic Title Southlake Office

Escape Hatches for Buyers
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE
In this class licensees will become familiar with specific conditions & contingencies within the contract and related addenda that, if not adhered to, could result in a Buyer’s valid termination of the contract.
April 11th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

DFW Stats and Trends at your Fingertips
Successful agents know their local markets. Whether used in a casual meeting, a listing presentation or on social media, knowing how to produce market reports is essential. Join us to learn how to generate current and relevant monthly/annual stats using all the tools available to you through NTREIS.
April 16th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Top Ten Contract Addenda
APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE.
Join us to review 10 of the most commonly utilized TREC contract addenda including Third Party Financing Addendum, Addendum for Backup Contract and more.
April 17th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco Office

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
April 23rd
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Death, Divorce & Real Estate
Join us to learn important laws surrounding death and divorce such as separation, homestead issues, community property and probate.
April 24th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

What to Expect from a Home Inspection
1. What an inspector does and does not inspect
2. Common defects or safety issues found in the home
3. How to prepare your clients for the home inspection
4. Limitations for a home inspection
5. Optional services that are offered
April 24th
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Lakewood Office

New Forms Editor-zipForm®
The new forms editor in zipForm® introduces several intelligent and intuitive features, giving agents and brokers everything they need to prepare and send forms faster than ever. With a new and improved workspace, you can autofill forms, fill out multiple forms at once, mark up documents, add personalized clauses and quickly add signers and property information.
April 24th
11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Republic Title Southlake Office

Hit the Road with MLS Touch App
Deals are made on the road. MLS Touch is the most advanced Mobile MLS app for agents! Come to this class to learn how to use this tool like a pro from the first time you log in. Seamless integration with Matrix, OneHome Portal, Realist Tax and more. Set up your own branded app to share with clients and on social media.
April 25th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

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March Class Calendar

Republic Title is pleased to offer a variety of continuing education classes for our customers. Join us in March for classes including:

Cybersecurity Basics for Brokers & Agents
This class will help licensees understand the importance of being ‘cyber- vigilant’ in addition to learning steps to take in order to protect themselves and their clients from cyber-attacks.
March 5th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

Step Up Your Instagram Game
In today’s real estate market, Instagram marketing is essential to showcasing who you are and connecting with your sphere. Are you ready to take your Instagram to the next level? Join us in this class for a complete guide to Instagram including ways to enhance your bio, tools for creating great content, how to target and attract buyers and sellers, and much more!
March 5th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Survey Issues
Join us for this class intended to help licensees understand surveys and the applicable paragraphs in the TREC 1-4 Family Residential Contract and prepare them for any potential survey issues that may arise.
March 6th
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco Office

Definitions & Rules of the Forward 1031 Exchange
In this class, you will learn how the general workings of a 1031 Exchange can be very beneficial to agents who work with investors. This class will help you recognize potential situations that may warrant or justify a 1031 Exchange for your client.
March 7th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Incredible Canva Tips and Tricks
Boost your listings and properties easily and efficiently using Canva’s beautiful real estate templates. Join us to learn new tips and tricks to make designing even easier and make marketing one of your new favorite tasks!
March 12th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

New Forms Editor – zipForm®
The new forms editor in zipForm® introduces several intelligent and intuitive features, giving agents and brokers everything they need to prepare and send forms faster than ever. With a new and improved workspace, you can autofill forms, fill out multiple forms at once, mark up documents, add personalized clauses and quickly add signers and property information.
March 14th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title North Dallas Office

TREC Legal Update I
Material mandated by TREC: Legal Update I covers various topics related to changes in regulations, forms, and standards of practice in the real estate industry including: TREC statute and rule updates, an overview of changes to and best practices for promulgated contract and addenda forms, and updated information on fair housing and property management laws and regulations.
March 19th
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Republic Title Uptown Office

It’s All Foreign to Me
This class will cover many areas of a transaction involving a non-US citizen including Foreign Investors Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA), Foreign Wills, Mexican Matricula Consular and Foreign Acknowledgments.
March 19th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title Preston Legacy Office

Mortgage Tools for Buyers and Buyers Agents

Tools Discussed:
(1) Real Estate Report Card: Shows potential clients the health of their local market using metrics like home inventory, affordability index and appreciation
(2) Buy vs Rent Comparison: Allow you to compare your estimated monthly payment for renting, or buying but also includes additional analytics. Estimate of the homes future value ass well as the possible tax savings you could realize when buying a home
(3) Investment Property Analyzer: Cash flow estimate year 1 through 10, cash on cash return, overall Expected ROI
(4) Cost of waiting analysis: Estimate the cost of waiting to purchase

Guest Instructor: Kyle Wilcox | Business Development Manager, ITrustLendingTeam
*No CE provided – for informational purposes only*
March 19th
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Republic Title Frisco Office

New Forms Editor-zipForm
The new forms editor in zipForm® introduces several intelligent and intuitive features, giving agents and brokers everything they need to prepare and send forms faster than ever. With a new and improved workspace, you can autofill forms, fill out multiple forms at once, mark up documents, add personalized clauses and quickly add signers and property information.
March 20th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Lakewood Country Club

Top Ten Contract Addenda
Join us to review 10 of the most commonly utilized TREC contract addenda including Third Party Financing Addendum, Addendum for Backup Contract and more. APPROVED TREC CONTRACT COURSE.
March 20th
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

DocuSign Dynamics
Unleash the full potential of a paperless workflow with DocuSign®. Our engaging, hands-on class dives right into the heart of DocuSign®, empowering you to sign and send documents effortlessly from any corner of the globe.
March 21st
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Zoom

The State of Insurance in Texas

Insurance market conditions are drastically changing in Texas. This course will explore contributing factors, the effect on the real estate process and solutions to best help your clients.

Guest Instructor: Todd Campbell with Farmers Insurance
*No CE provided – for informational purposes only*
March 21st
10:00 am – 11:00 am
Republic Title North Dallas

TREC Legal Update I
Material mandated by TREC: Legal Update I covers various topics related to changes in regulations, forms, and standards of practice in the real estate industry including: TREC statute and rule updates, an overview of changes to and best practices for promulgated contract and addenda forms, and updated information on fair housing and property management laws and regulations.
March 27th
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
The Lakes at Castle Hills

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Tips From Republic Title for Understanding and Preventing Wire Fraud

Real estate transactions are significant financial undertakings, making them attractive targets for fraudsters. That’s why the Title Underwriting and Legal team at Republic Title is looking to protect its customers with these tips and consumer information.

Among the various types of fraud, wire fraud has become increasingly common in real estate transactions in recent years. While exact statistics can be hard to come by due to underreporting, the FBI reported in 2020 that victims lost over $200 million to real estate wire fraud alone. This significant sum underscores the scale of the problem.

How Wire Fraud Occurs

Wire fraud in real estate transactions often involves criminals attempting to manipulate the financial aspects of the transaction. Here’s how it typically happens:

1. Impersonation: Fraudsters may impersonate legitimate parties involved in the transaction, such as real estate agents, title company representatives, or even the buyers and sellers themselves. They send convincing emails or text messages that appear to be from these trusted sources.

2. False Wire Instructions: Once they’ve gained trust, the criminals send false wire instructions, either requesting a change in account details or directing the victim to wire funds to a fraudulent account. These instructions often contain convincing details about the transaction.

3. Urgency and Pressure: Scammers often use tactics that create a sense of urgency and pressure victims to act quickly, leaving them with little time to question the authenticity of the requests.

4. Lack of Verification: Victims may not independently verify the instructions due to the perception that they are dealing with trusted parties, relying solely on email or other electronic communication for confirmation.

Preventing Wire Fraud

Preventing wire fraud in real estate transactions requires vigilance and adherence to best practices:

1. Independent Verification: Always verify wire transfer instructions independently, ideally through a phone call using a previously provided phone number. Avoid relying solely on email communication or text messages, as it can be compromised. 

2. Secure Communication: Use secure and encrypted communication channels when sharing sensitive financial information. This ensures that your conversations remain confidential and protected from eavesdropping.

3. Education and Awareness: Stay informed about common wire fraud tactics and red flags. Look out for unusual or unexpected changes in wire instructions and urgent requests for funds. Encourage all parties involved in the transaction to do the same.

What to do if You Are The Victim

If you discover that funds have been transferred to a fraudulent account, contact your bank or the money transfer company immediately. Ask the bank or money transfer company to attempt a wire recall. Contact your local FBI, State Attorney General’s office, and the FTC to report the fraud. File a complaint, regardless of the dollar amount, with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. Part of the mission of ic3 is to provide the public with a reliable and convenient reporting mechanism to submit information to the FBI concerning suspected criminal activity. Information is analyzed and used for investigative and intelligence law enforcement purposes and for public awareness. 

Wire fraud is a significant threat in real estate transactions due to the potential for substantial financial losses. Understanding how it occurs and implementing preventive measures is crucial to safeguarding your investments. By adopting independent verification, secure communication, education, and confirmation of contacts, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to wire fraud. Additionally, the Republic Title Underwriting and Legal team is available to answer your questions and be a resource for you in working towards a smooth closing. Republic Title’s team includes Matt Visinsky, Wade Bogdon, Jay Turner, Steve Holley, and Sarah Mann. 

Source: Candysdirt.com – Tips From Republic Title for Understanding and Preventing Wire Fraud – CandysDirt.com