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By Risa Weiss-Kallis, VP of Agent Development – Kale Realty One of the biggest complaints consumers have about real estate agents is a lack of communication . At Kale Realty, we strive to be different— clear, proactive communication is our standard , not an afterthought. Whether your client is buying or selling, your role as their trusted advisor includes keeping them updated, setting expectations, and guiding them through every step . Here's how to build a simple but powerful communication plan that makes your clients feel supported, informed, and in control. 🛍️ For Buyers: Your Buyer Communication Plan 🎯 Goal: Help buyers feel educated, empowered, and confident in their decisions. ✅ Before the Search Begins: Kickoff Consultation : Walk them through the buying process and timeline. Share a Buyer’s Guide : Branded PDF with key steps and FAQs. Send Pre-Approval Referrals : Make lender introductions if they’re not yet pre-approved. Set Expectations : Let them know how and when you’ll communicate (email, text, weekly calls, etc.). Tip: Use Kale Huddle resources or create a simple email with a home buying checklist. 🔍 During the Search: Set Up a Custom MLS Search : Make sure they’re seeing properties in real time. Weekly Check-Ins : Even if no showings are scheduled, update them on market activity. Send New Listings Immediately : Be fast. Buyers love responsiveness. Recap Showings : Text or call after each showing to debrief and keep momentum. 📝 Once Under Contract: Send a “Next Steps” Timeline : Email outlining the contract-to-close process. Weekly Progress Updates : Include inspection status, appraisal, mortgage steps, etc. Be Proactive : If a delay or hiccup happens, tell them before they ask. Use tools like Dotloop to track progress and loop in all parties. 📦 After Closing: Deliver a Closing Gift  🎁 Send a “Welcome Home” Email  with home maintenance tips Check In After 30 Days : Ask how things are going—and request a review! Add to Your Client for Life Program  (anniversary cards, invites to client events, pop-bys) 🏡 For Sellers: Your Seller Communication Plan 🎯 Goal: Keep sellers confident in your strategy and aware of every marketing and offer-related update. ✅ Pre-Listing: Seller Strategy Session : Discuss pricing, marketing, and what to expect. Send a Listing Prep Checklist : Help them get the home ready. Share a Branded CMA Report : Review comps and price recommendations. Provide a Marketing Plan : Email or present a detailed plan: staging, photos, social media, open houses, etc. 📣 While Listed: Weekly Seller Update : This is non-negotiable. Include: Showing activity Feedback from buyers Website/MLS traffic Upcoming marketing actions Local market stats and competitor updates New Offers? Tell Them ASAP : Be clear, calm, and strategic. Check-In Call/Text Every 3–4 Days : Even if there’s no news, let them know that. Pro Tip: Use a consistent subject line like “Weekly Update for 123 Main Street” to keep your emails organized. 📝 Once Under Contract: Send a “Next Steps” Email : Include important dates and what to expect next. Coordinate with Attorney/Lender/Appraiser : Keep everyone on the same page. Weekly Transaction Check-In : Confirm everything is moving smoothly. Explain Each Milestone : Don’t assume they know what’s next. 🎉 After Closing: Thank You Card or Gift Home Sale Summary Email  with final stats and link to leave a review Add to Your Client for Life Plan  (quarterly check-ins, market updates, etc.) 📌 Communication Tools to Help You Stay on Track Tool Use Dotloop Transaction updates & document sharing Your CRM (Follow Up Boss, Wise Agent, etc.) Automated reminders, drip campaigns Canva Create branded checklists and guides ATNAgentOne Send net sheets and seller updates Google Calendar Set client follow-up reminders Social Media Keep clients engaged and aware of market trends 💬 Final Thoughts: Be the Agent Who Over-Communicates When you stay in touch, provide updates before they ask, and explain the "why" behind each step, you reduce stress, build trust, and create a client for life. Clients may not always remember every detail of their transaction—but they will always remember how you made them feel . Clear, consistent communication = loyalty, referrals, and repeat business . 💡 Want templates for your Buyer and Seller Communication Plans? 📩 Email me at risa@kalerealty.com  and I’ll send you plug-and-play versions ready to brand and use!

Everything You Need to Know About Creating and Running a Successful Real Estate Team 1. Can I create a team at Kale Realty? Absolutely! At Kale Realty, we empower our agents to grow their businesses their way. Forming a team is a great way to scale your business, delegate tasks, and provide a higher level of service to your clients. 2. How does commission work for team leaders and members? Kale Realty offers all agents 100% commission .As a team leader, you determine the commission structure for your team members based on what works best for your business model. You have complete flexibility to: Set commission splits for your team members. Offer incentives or bonuses. Decide on referral fees, overrides, or other arrangements. For guidance on structuring your team, refer to the   Policy and Procedures Manual . 3. What training and resources does Kale Realty offer for team leaders? We provide extensive training and resources to help you become an effective team leader: The Locker Room : Access a library of workshops, training videos, and coaching resources designed for team leaders. Broker TRACK Program : A multi-week workshop series designed for agents building teams while remaining in production. Offers tools and strategies for increasing leverage, managing long-term financial stability, and building systems for success. Provides opportunities to connect with other team leaders and share best practices. 4. How can Kale Realty’s in-house recruiters help me build my team? Our two in-house recruiters  are here to support your team-building efforts by: Connecting you with qualified agents interested in joining a team. Offering recruitment strategies to attract top talent. Assisting with onboarding new team members. 5. Can I offer new agents a "trial run" before fully integrating them into my team? Yes! Kale Realty provides programs to give prospective team members a “trial run” to ensure they’re a good fit: Transaction Coordinator Program : Allow agents to experience your team's workflow and systems while assisting with transaction management. Mentoring Program : Offer mentorship to newer agents, giving them valuable experience while you assess their potential fit for your team. 6. Does Kale Realty provide leads for my team? Yes! We offer lead generation opportunities through the Real Geeks Program . As a team leader, you can allocate these leads to your team members or use them to boost your team’s business. 7. How do I structure my team to ensure long-term success? Here are some best practices to consider: Develop Clear Roles : Define each team member’s role and responsibilities. Create Systems : Use tools like Dotloop and Real Geeks to streamline transactions, marketing, and client follow-up. Leverage Support : Utilize Kale Realty’s transaction coordination and mentoring services to offload administrative tasks. Focus on Financial Stability : Participate in the Broker TRACK Program  to learn strategies for managing team finances and growth. 8. How can I market my team within Kale Realty? Share your success stories and team milestones in Kale Realty’s Facebook groups  and internal communications. Create a team page on your personal real estate website. Use Kale’s preferred vendors and marketing resources to promote your team’s listings and achievements. 9. How do I get started building my team? Define Your Vision : Outline your goals, structure, and financial plan for the team. Contact Our Recruiters : Reach out to our in-house recruiters for help identifying potential team members. Enroll in Broker TRACK : Gain access to resources, workshops, and a network of other team leaders. Leverage Kale Resources : Utilize The Locker Room, Real Geeks leads, and transaction support to grow your team effectively. 10. Who can I contact for more information? For additional guidance on building and managing a team, please reach out to:📧 DJ@kalerealty.com 📞 (312) 939-5253 We’re excited to support you as you build and lead a successful team at Kale Realty! 🌟

At Kale Realty, we believe your journey in real estate should start with confidence, clarity, and community. That’s why we offer a powerful three-part Orientation series to set you up for long-term success. Whether you're just joining the Kale family or need a refresher on our tools and resources, these sessions are the perfect launchpad for your business. 📅 Upcoming Kale Orientation Dates Tuesdays: 🕚 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM May 13, 2025 June 10, 2025   Thursdays: 🕕 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM April 24, 2025 June 26, 2025   Saturday: 🕚 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM May 24, 2025   👉 Register here:   https://www.kalehuddle.com/event 🏁 Workshop 1: Getting Started at Kale Time:  First 30 minutes of each session Your introduction to all things Kale. You’ll learn: Meet the Team  – Office hours, door code (1937), and who’s who Policies & Procedures  – From fees to pay schedules Education  – Post-licensing, CE, and associations (NAR, IR, CAR, NSBAR, MRED) Vendors  – Title, attorneys, home warranties, and more Culture & Perks  – Join committees to waive fees and earn referral bonuses This workshop lays the foundation for a smooth start at Kale. Welcome aboard! 🧰 Workshop 2: Doing Business at Kale Time:  Second 30 minutes of each session Ready to work like a pro? We’ll cover: Coaching & Support  – Meet your Transaction Coach, explore KaleHuddle Dotloop Training  – How to manage deals and stay compliant Marketing Guidelines  – Fair Housing logos, branding tools Brand Building  – Websites, CRMs, headshots, and Xpressdocs Business Essentials  – Set up your email, corporate docs, and LLC This is your practical toolkit for working efficiently and professionally at Kale. 🚀 Workshop 3: The Path to Success at Kale Time:  Final 30 minutes of each session Let’s talk growth. This final session dives into: Training Programs  – The Locker Room, TRACK, Breakthrough Paths Mentorship  – Work with a coach or mentor to fast-track your career Lead Generation  – Boost your listing/buyer presentations Huddle Up Updates  – Learn how to use KaleHuddle’s latest features Walk away with a clear strategy for long-term success at Kale. Ready to grow your real estate business?   Join an upcoming orientation and get connected with everything Kale Realty has to offer. We can’t wait to see you there!

Here's a list of documents agents need when working with a buyer to write an offer 1. Contract 7.0 Agent and buyer review the key terms, including purchase price, contingencies, financing, and deadlines. Buyer signs the contract, which is then submitted to the seller for review and counter-signature. There cannot be blanks above line 370 (use NA where necessary) Page 13 must be COMPLETELY filled out Include in the attachment section Contract 7.0 Addendum (if applicable)  2. Contract 7.0 Addendum Agent and buyer review the addendum to request seller to offset buyers responsibility to pay buyer agent compensation Buyer signs the addendum, which is attached to the main contract and submitted with the offer. 3. Real Property Disclosure Agent obtains the seller’s real property disclosure and reviews it with the buyer to ensure the buyer is aware of any known property issues. Buyer signs the disclosure to acknowledge receipt and understanding. 4. Lead and Radon Disclosures (If Applicable) Agent obtains lead-based paint and/or radon disclosures from the seller (if applicable). Buyer signs the lead and/or radon disclosure to confirm understanding of potential hazards. 5. Disclosure of Personal Interest    Purpose: Ensures transparency if the agent has a personal interest in the transaction (e.g., purchasing for themselves, family, close friends, or repeat clients). Agent completes the personal interest disclosure, stating the relationship with the buyer. Buyer signs the document to acknowledge the agent’s personal involvement or interest After Document Completion Submission: Once all documents are signed and complete, the agent submits the offer (with the Contract 7.0 and any addendums) to the seller’s agent Follow-Up: After submission, the agent follows up with the listing agent for acceptance, counteroffers, or rejection. Document Storage: All signed documents should be stored securely in the Dotloop checklists Buyer agent emails contract, addendum and disclosures to sellers agent, mortgage broker and attorneys

Here's a list of documents agents need when  working with a seller to acquire a listing : 1.  Listing Agreement Seller and agent review and seller sign. Agent submits to the managing broker for approval and signature/initials. Listing may not go on the MLS or be advertised until this has been completed and uploaded into a checklist in Dotloop 2. Affiliated Business Disclosure Agent explains affiliations with Rivers title companies Seller signs to acknowledge understanding. 3. Anti-Fraud Disclosure Agent reviews fraud prevention practices with the seller.  Seller signs to confirm acknowledgment of anti-fraud obligations. 4. $100 Commission Rider Seller signs to confirm understanding and agreement. Agent includes this rider as part of the listing contract. 5. Real Property Disclosures Seller completes and signs the appropriate disclosure forms regarding the property's condition (e.g., structural issues, known defects). Agent reviews and files with the listing documents (and uploads this onto the MLS) 6. Lead or Radon Disclosures (As Needed) If applicable, seller completes and signs required lead and/or radon disclosure forms. Agent ensures inclusion of these disclosures in the property listing materials.(and uploads this onto the MLS) 7. Brokerage-to-Brokerage Compensation Agreement   Seller signs to authorize the agent to extend compensation offers to buyer agents. Agent files as part of the listing documentation.and should share this with buyer’s agents 8.   Disclosure of Personal Interest  Purpose: Ensures transparency if the agent has a personal interest in the transaction (e.g., purchasing for themselves, family, close friends, or repeat clients). Agent completes the personal interest disclosure, stating the relationship with the seller. Buyer signs the document to acknowledge the agent’s personal involvement or interest After Document Completion Document Storage: Ensure all signed documents are attached to Dotloop Checklist PRIOR TO PUTTING LISTING ON THE MARKET Review Period: Double-check all documents for completeness and compliance before activating the listing on MLS

Kale Realty Announces New Partnership with R. E. Transaction Services to Streamline Agent Workflow Kale Realty is excited to announce a new partnership with R. E. Transaction Services, a move designed to provide our agents with a more seamless and efficient way to manage transactions. This collaboration will offer valuable support in handling essential paperwork, submitting documentation to Dotloop, and ensuring compliance with transaction requirements. Through this partnership, Kale Agents will have access to expert assistance in accurately completing and submitting necessary forms, reducing administrative burdens, and allowing them to focus more on serving clients and closing deals. R. E. Transaction Services specializes in streamlining transaction processes, ensuring accuracy, and helping agents stay organized throughout every step of a deal. Beyond transaction management, R. E. Transaction Services can also assist agents in entering listings into the MLS and creating professional marketing materials. This added support will help agents showcase properties effectively and reach a broader audience with high-quality, engaging marketing content. Getting started is easy! Agents can reach out to the team at R. E. Transaction Services by visiting their website at   www.myrealservices.com  or calling 773.797.8100. We are confident that this partnership will enhance the efficiency of our agents and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. Take advantage of this fantastic resource and streamline your workflow today!

Your first 30 days with Kale Realty: Day 1-5: Onboarding & Setup ☐ Read the Policy and Procedure Handbook ☐ Sign up for the local association of REALTORS® ☐ Complete the online Kale Realty Orientation ("Huddle Up") ☐ Create a list of all usernames and passwords for your real estate tools ☐  Log into The Locker Room Day 6-10: Systems & Tools ☐ Contact MB@kalerealty.com  if you have an opportunity to be set up with a Transaction Coach ☐ Request your Real Geeks website/CRM ☐ Log into Dotloop and familiarize yourself with the system Day 11-20: Marketing & Branding ☐ Order business cards on   Xpressdocs ☐ Order open house signs at   Lowen Sign ☐  Download the Kale Realty and Fair Housing logos for marketing ☐ Save the Kale Realty office phone number: (312) 939-5253 Day 21-30: Building Your Business ☐ Create your database of Sphere of Influence (SOI) in a spreadsheet Export contacts from your phone ☐ Begin reaching out to your SOI to deepen your relationships and  announce your business After you complete Career Kickoff (prior to April 30 of the even year) sign up to take your 45 hour class

The 2025 Cook County Suburban Lease is now available in the CAR  Forms and Contracts Library . The lease has been updated to include: New laws and ordinances for 2025. Changes to the Illinois Landlord Tenant Act that requires the disclosure of potential flooding for rental transactions. A new paragraph for the parties to discuss and decide on any contribution to the tenant brokerage’s compensation by the landlord. This lease is NOT to be used for property located in the city of Chicago. Also updated is the Suburban Lease for properties outside Cook County. The lease has been updated to include: Changes to the Illinois Landlord Tenant Act that requires the disclosure of potential flooding for rental transactions. A new paragraph for the parties to discuss and decide on any contribution to the tenant brokerage’s compensation by the landlord. This lease is NOT to be used for any property located in Cook County. Both leases are made available through a partnership with the Mainstreet Organization of REALTORS®. The lease will be made interactive in the Dotloop templates.

When representing a buyer or a seller you’ll need to provide the seller’s attorney with a brokerage statement.  We can provide you with this.  Be sure to submit your request at least 7 days prior to the anticipated closing. Go to www.KaleHuddle.com  and on the main page click on REQUEST A BROKER STATEMENT.  Complete the appropriate form.  You will only be provided the brokerage statement if all your documents have been submitted (sans settlement statement).  The admin will receive your request, draw up the statement, and add it to the Dotloop Checklist (attach/assign) as well as email to you. Be sure to share it with the seller’s attorney and title company. Watch this video for additional assistance.

Due to multiple recent violations related to the NAR settlement, we are implementing a mandatory review process for all listings to ensure compliance and protect both you and the brokerage from potential fines. Effective immediately, any listing you wish to activate on the MLS will need to be reviewed and approved by our compliance team . Here's how the process will work: Dotloop Documentation : All required paperwork within the Dotloop checklist must be complete ( here is a video to show how. ) This includes an executed listing agreement signed by both the Designated Managing Broker (DMD) and the client , along with all necessary disclosures. If we do not have these documents in the checklist, your listing will not be activated. Email Requirement : To make a listing go live, you must   fill out this form . This will notify our compliance team to review and approve your listing before it is activated. Listing Review : The compliance team will review and edit the MLS draft listing to ensure it meets all Fair Housing requirements and adheres to the latest NAR Settlement regulations. This step is crucial to prevent any language or terms that could result in a violation. These measures are being implemented for your protection and to safeguard Kale Realty from any potential penalties. Compliance with these regulations is essential to maintaining the professional standards expected of our team. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we work to ensure full compliance and protect our agents. Should you have any questions about this process, please reach out to MB@kalerealty.com .

Follow these steps to successfully close a listing with Kale Realty: 1️⃣ Submit All Required Paperwork into Dotloop Checklist Log in to Dotloop  and navigate to your transaction checklist Here is a video to assist you Upload all required documents , including: Executed Listing Agreement Executed Purchase Contract All Required Disclosures  (e.g., Lead-Based Paint, Radon, etc.) MLS Printout (Final Status: Closed) Any Amendments or Addendums Review non-required  documents to determine if they are applicable and should be included in the file. 2️⃣ Complete the Request for Brokerage Statement Go to www.Kalehuddle.com and click on Request brokerage statement 3️⃣ Download the Brokerage Statement from Your Dotloop Checklist The Brokerage Statement will be uploaded to your checklist in Dotloop 4️⃣ Review & Send Brokerage Statement to Seller’s Attorney Once the Brokerage Statement  is available in your checklist: Review it carefully for accuracy. Download the statement. Email it to the seller’s attorney  for review. 5️⃣ Attend the Closing Be present at the closing to ensure a smooth transaction. Collect the settlement document  from the title company. 6️⃣ Collect & Deposit Commission Check Pick up the commission check at closing. Deposit the check at any Chase Bank branch   Here is more information on how to make the deposit or Request the title company to overnight or wire  the funds directly to Kale Realty. 7️⃣ Upload Chase Deposit Documents to Dotloop Upload the Chase deposit slip  and Chase deposit form  to the Dotloop checklist for record-keeping. 8️⃣ Upload Final Settlement Statement to Dotloop Ensure that the Final Settlement Statement (ALTA/CD)  is uploaded to the Dotloop checklist. 9️⃣ Send a Thank-You Gift to Your Client Show appreciation by sending a personalized thank-you gift  to your seller. Consider a handwritten note, a small gift, or a digital gift card to stay top of mind for future referrals. Stay in touch with your client !!!!  ✅ Congratulations!  You’ve successfully closed a listing with Kale Realty! 🚀🎉 ** If you want to be paid in 2 hours or less after closing, email mb@kalerealty.com  for more information.

Here's a list of documents agents need when  working with an unrepresented  buyer or tenant  - BEFORE SHOWING PROPERTIES  1. No Agency Disclosure (Non-Agency Disclosure) Informs the unrepresented buyer that the agent is solely representing the interests of the seller or landlord and does not have an agency relationship with the buyer. Provide the No Agency Disclosure to the unrepresented buyer, clearly stating that the agent represents the seller/landlord and will not be acting in the buyer’s best interest. Ensure the unrepresented buyer signs the disclosure, acknowledging that they understand they are not being represented by the agent. DO NOT ADVISE UNREPRESENTED BUYER/TENANT Attach the signed No Agency Disclosure to the checklist in Dotloop  2. Disclosure of Personal Interest (If Applicable) Discloses any personal or financial interest the agent may have in the property, or any close relationship the agent has with the seller or landlord, to ensure transparency with the unrepresented buyer/tenant If the agent has a personal interest in the transaction (e.g., they are related to the seller/landlord, or have a financial interest in the property), provide the Disclosure of Personal Interest to the unrepresented buyer. Clearly state the nature of the personal or financial interest (e.g., the agent is related to the seller or stands to benefit financially from the sale or lease). Ensure the unrepresented buyer signs the disclosure, acknowledging the agent’s personal interest in the transaction. Attach the signed Disclosure of Personal Interest to the checklist in Dotloop.  Final Steps: Compliance and Transaction Management Ensure that the No Agency Disclosure and, if applicable, the Disclosure of Personal Interest are fully completed and signed by the unrepresented buyer. Review the checklist in Dotloop to confirm that all necessary documents have been submitted. Offer the unrepresented buyer the opportunity to seek independent representation or legal advice if needed, to ensure they fully understand the disclosures.