When people are uncertain, they become afraid to make decisions. They need counsel from someone they can trust, someone who has their best interests at heart. Become the agent people will trust and depend on for great advice.

2. Have a 'Talking Point' Every Day.

People are so thirsty for good, current information on the housing sector. Be the resource of that information and you will be seen as the expert in your market. Read every day so you know what is happening. Is research just not your thing? Then go to our blog, www.KCMblog.com, and look at our talking point of the day. It is posted every morning (Monday through Friday) at 7am.

3. Don't Hope the Market Gets Easier; Work Hard to Get Better.

Stop cursing the headwinds. It is time to adjust your sails. Start taking classes to attain a better understanding of where the industry is and where it is headed. Work toward a designation (CRS, GRI, etc.). You will be learning with like minded people who have decided to attack this market instead of falling victim to it. Register for the first class today!

4. Become a 'Trusted Advisor' to Those Who Depend on You.

Make sure you truly understand what is happening and why it is happening in today's market. That is our responsibility as professionals. Then tell your clients the truth even if it is difficult.

Stephen Covey says: "Trust is the one thing that changes everything."  According to Covey there are four core values that make up trust: Integrity, Intent, Capabilities and Results.

5. Volunteer to Help Those Less Fortunate.

We can no longer be motivated solely by extrinsic motivators (money, power, position). Our culture is moving toward more intrinsic motivators (meaning, growth, learning). We must know that what we are doing is important. Not just to profits, but to society. Volunteer this holiday season. Reach out and be a hero to someone who needs your help.

My father taught me at an early age that my success was up to only one thing - me! It is not always easy. You can't have success without experiencing failure. The trick is to keep on getting up and continuing to fight. Obstacles to our desires will cave-in to our perseverance.

- Steve Harney

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2.   Wall Street Journal & Forbes: It's Time to Buy a Home

3.   House Prices: Where They Will Be in the Spring

4.   Selling? Waiting Until the Spring Makes No Sense

5.   13,780 Homes Sold Yesterday