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The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute encourages REALTORS® to continually strengthen the skills that matter most to their clients—and few skills are more critical than negotiation, as highlighted in research from Harvard Law School’s Program on Negotiation. In today’s increasingly complex real estate environment, earning the Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is one of the most effective ways Mississippi REALTORS® can elevate their professionalism, improve client outcomes, and differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

Recognized by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and offered through the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI), the RENE certification is designed to help REALTORS® become more confident, strategic, and effective advocates at the bargaining table. For Mississippi REALTORS® who complete the program through the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI), RENE also offers the added benefit of Mississippi-approved continuing education (CE) credit—making it both a practical and strategic investment in 2026.

What Is the RENE Certification in Real Estate?

The Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE) certification is the first and only negotiation credential formally recognized by the National Association of REALTORS®. Developed by REBI, an NAR affiliate, RENE focuses exclusively on the negotiation process and the real-world challenges REALTORS® face when representing buyers and sellers.

Through the required RENE course, REALTORS® gain practical instruction on:

• Understanding and leveraging negotiation styles
• Managing personalities and emotions during high-stakes transactions
• Navigating multiple-offer situations
• Addressing behind-the-scenes issues that can derail a deal
• Communicating clearly to protect client interests

Rather than theoretical concepts, RENE training is grounded in real scenarios drawn from residential real estate practice—making it immediately applicable for Mississippi REALTORS® working in today’s market.

How Can REALTORS® Benefit From Earning the RENE Credential?

Negotiation skill directly impacts client satisfaction, transaction outcomes, and long-term business success. REALTORS® who earn the RENE certification are better equipped to secure favorable terms for their clients, whether that means higher net proceeds for sellers, stronger protections for buyers, or strategic compromises that keep deals moving forward.

Beyond financial outcomes, RENE training helps REALTORS®:

• Reduce client stress by setting realistic expectations
• Manage conflict when emotions run high
• Communicate more effectively under pressure
• Build trust through professionalism and confidence

These skills often translate into smoother transactions, stronger client relationships, and increased repeat and referral business—especially important in Mississippi’s relationship-driven real estate markets.

Is the RENE Certification Required or Optional for REALTORS®?

The RENE certification is optional, not a licensing requirement under Mississippi Real Estate Commission Rules and Regulations. REALTORS® are not required to hold RENE to practice real estate in Mississippi.

However, to earn and maintain the credential, you must:

• Be an active REALTOR® or International REALTOR® member
• Complete the required RENE coursework
• Submit a one-time credentialing application and fee through REBI

There are no recurring RENE-specific dues beyond standard REALTOR® membership requirements. For Mississippi REALTORS®, this makes RENE a strategic professional development choice—one that signals a commitment to higher service standards and advanced skills rather than a box-checking exercise.

How Do I Get the RENE Certification Through the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute?

The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute offers the RENE course as part of its lineup of Mississippi-specific, high-quality real estate education. As the education division of the Mississippi Association of REALTORS®, MRI is the only real estate school in Mississippi with a 40-year track record of superior quality, outstanding customer service, and proven results.

The RENE course is offered exclusively in an in-person classroom setting, providing REALTORS® with an immersive, interactive learning experience focused on practical negotiation strategies and real-world application. In 2026, MRI will offer the RENE certification course one time as a two-day, in-person class held in Flowood, Mississippi.

When RENE is offered through MRI, REALTORS® can earn Mississippi-approved continuing education (CE) hours while also fulfilling the education requirement for the certification—helping agents advance their skills while staying on track for license renewal.

Why Should Mississippi REALTORS® Earn the RENE Certification in 2026?

Market conditions in 2026 are expected to remain competitive and complex. Shifting interest rates, limited inventory, and increasingly informed consumers place greater pressure on REALTORS® to negotiate effectively on behalf of their clients.

Negotiation is one of the few elements of a transaction that REALTORS® can fully control. Earning the RENE certification helps transform that skill into measurable client value—regardless of market conditions.

Completing RENE early in 2026 positions Mississippi REALTORS® to:

• Apply advanced strategies during the busy spring and summer markets
• Promote the credential in listing presentations and buyer consultations
• Differentiate themselves in marketing and branding throughout the year

Beyond the initial coursework, REALTORS® who earn the RENE credential gain access to ongoing professional resources through the Real Estate Business Institute, including branding and marketing tools, educational content, and networking opportunities that support continued skill development in a changing market.

By completing the course through the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, REALTORS® can sharpen their negotiation expertise, earn CE credit, and align themselves with the state’s premier real estate education provider—all at the same time.

Next Steps for Mississippi REALTORS®

Mississippi REALTORS® who are ready to elevate their negotiation skills through the RENE certification can take the following steps:

• Register for the 2026 RENE certification course, which will be offered as a one-time, two-day, in-person class through the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute.
• Maintain active REALTOR® membership and, after successfully completing the course, submit the required one-time credentialing application and fee to the Real Estate Business Institute (REBI).
• Leverage the RENE credential in marketing materials, presentations, and client conversations to demonstrate advanced negotiation expertise and a commitment to professional excellence.

For details on this upcoming RENE course and other Mississippi-approved continuing education opportunities, REALTORS® are encouraged to connect with the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute—the trusted education partner of Mississippi REALTORS®.

Supporting Mississippi REALTORS® Through Education

The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute provides Mississippi REALTORS® with high-quality education, nationally recognized certifications, and continuing education opportunities designed for today’s real estate market.

For details on the upcoming 2026 RENE course, CE options, and professional resources, visit realtorinstitute.org or contact the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute at 601-932-5241.

Useful Resources

• National Association of REALTORS® – Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE)
• Real Estate Business Institute (REBI) – RENE Certification
• National Association of REALTORS® – Code of Ethics

Transferring real estate in Mississippi demands attention to both the deed and title to avoid closing delays. From understanding deed types to spotting title defects like heir property and liens, REALTORS® play a key role in protecting clients. This guide offers practical insights and continuing education options from the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute to help you manage title risks and strengthen your real estate expertise.

Deeds 101: The Legal Vehicle for Transferring Property

Understanding deed types in Mississippi real estate is essential for agents guiding buyers and sellers through property transfers.

General Warranty Deed vs. Special Warranty Deed

Mississippi law spells out the difference between these popular instruments:

• General Warranty Deed: The word “warrant” provides all five common-law covenants: seizin, right to convey, no encumbrances, quiet enjoyment, and title warranty. The seller is on the hook for defects no matter when they arose.
• Special Warranty Deed: Using the phrase “warrant specially” limits the seller’s promises to claims that arose only during that seller’s period of ownership.

Why it matters for REALTORS®: Explaining deed coverage early helps prevent delays and reduces liability from title search surprises.

Other Deed Types You’ll Encounter

Quitclaim deeds, trustee’s deeds, and tax deeds appear regularly at foreclosures or estate sales. Each carries its own risk profile—another reason to recommend a comprehensive title search and appropriate insurance.

Title Basics: Searches, Insurance, and Clear Ownership

What a Title Search Reveals

Title companies review public records to confirm ownership and uncover title defects before closing. Complex issues turn up in roughly 36% of transactions, according to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR).

Do Mississippi Buyers Need Title Insurance?

Title insurance in Mississippi is not required, but the Mississippi Insurance Department strongly recommends an owner’s policy to protect the buyer’s equity and ensure a clean title. According to the Land Title Association of Mississippi, a lender’s title insurance policy protects only the lender’s financial interest in the property—not the homeowner’s. To protect your own equity and ownership rights, only an owner’s policy can cover legal expenses and losses arising from title defects that existed before the purchase but were unknown at the time of closing.

Calculating the Cost

Title insurance rates are not regulated in Mississippi. Each company files its own rate manual, though differences in premiums among most insurers are negligible. Premiums are typically based on the property’s sale price or loan amount, with industry estimates placing the average cost around 0.5% of the purchase price. Because it’s a one-time premium paid at closing, most buyers include it in their overall settlement costs.

Mississippi Red Flags: Common Title Defects

1. Heir Property

In Mississippi, land often passes down without probate, creating “heirs’ property” — where multiple descendants have inherited use of land but lack a clear title. This tangled ownership can delay or block sales, financing, and insurance. The USDA now allows alternative documentation to help heirs establish legal use. For client support, share the Land Trust Alliance’s Heirs’ Property Toolkit.

2. Liens and Outstanding Judgments

Unpaid debts like contractor bills, taxes, or judgments may result in liens that must be resolved before closing. Title insurance can protect buyers against undiscovered or improperly recorded liens that weren’t found during the title search.

3. Clouds on Title

A cloud on title is any claim, error, or encumbrance that creates uncertainty about property ownership. Common causes include missing legal descriptions, unreleased liens, or outdated deeds in the names of deceased owners. Even small issues can delay closing or require a quiet title action, a legal process that is often lengthy and costly. Identifying clouds early helps resolve defects or cancel contracts before earnest money is lost.

How REALTORS® Add Value When Deed or Title Issues Arise

REALTORS® add real value by spotting title problems early and helping clients navigate them. As NAR’s “179 Ways” outlines, this includes tasks like researching ownership, reviewing title documents, and coordinating with professionals to resolve issues.

For Mississippi agents, this often means:

• Check deed and ownership.
• Review title commitments.
• Recommend title companies and Owner’s Policies.
• Flag heir property in title chain.
• Assist with liens and refer to attorneys.
• Document guidance to reduce liability.

Keep Learning with Mississippi REALTORS® Institute

Build expertise in real estate contracts, license law, and property disclosures with continuing education courses from MRI. These courses help REALTORS® recognize title defects and manage legal risks during transactions.

Top MRI CE Courses for Title and Deed Awareness:

• Those D.A.M. Forms (License Law)
• Contract Law
• Disclosure & You (Agency Law)

Register for upcoming CE courses today!

Handle Title and Deed Issues with Confidence

Title defects and unclear deeds can delay closings and jeopardize your client’s investment. By staying informed and recommending title protections, Mississippi REALTORS® help guide smooth closings.

For questions about title issues, required documentation, or upcoming CE courses, contact the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, call us directly at 601-932-5241, or explore our blog. Together, we can help you serve your clients with clarity and professionalism.

Helpful Resources

1. NAR What Is Title Insurance
2. NAR’s “179 Ways”
3. Guide to Title Insurance

Navigating Dual Agency with Confidence and Compliance

Dual agency can be one of the most complex relationships in real estate. When a licensee represents both the buyer and seller in the same transaction, it raises important legal, ethical, and communication challenges. In Mississippi, REALTORS® must navigate dual agency with precision, transparency, and a deep understanding of both state rules and NAR’s Code of Ethics.

At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI), we are committed to helping real estate professionals uphold the highest standards while effectively managing dual agency situations. This guide provides key insights into what dual agency entails, the legal disclosures required, and how to explain the arrangement to clients with confidence.

What Is Dual Agency in Mississippi Real Estate?

Dual agency occurs when a single real estate licensee or brokerage represents both the buyer and the seller in the same real estate transaction. In this scenario, the agent owes fiduciary duties to both parties, which can lead to inherent conflicts of interest if not handled correctly.

Mississippi law permits dual agency only when both parties give their informed, written consent. This arrangement is known as disclosed dual agency and is regulated under MREC Rule 30-1601-4.2.

Legal Requirements: What REALTORS® Must Do

Confirm Consent with Signed Disclosure at Key Points

• At the time of the representation agreement, both the buyer and seller must give written consent to dual agency by signing the Consent to Dual Agency section of MREC Form A, which is the Working with a Real Estate Broker form.
• Before an offer is signed or presented, the broker must confirm that both the buyer and seller understand and agree to the dual agency relationship.
  • The Broker must confirm that the buyer(s) understands and consents to the consensual dual agency relationship prior to the signing of an offer to purchase.
  • The Broker must confirm that the seller(s) also understands and consents to the consensual dual agency relationship prior to presenting the offer to purchase.
• Each party must sign the MREC Dual Agency Confirmation Form, which must be attached to the buyer’s offer to purchase. This form remains part of the transaction file regardless of the outcome.

Communicating Dual Agency Clearly to Clients

Effective communication is key to maintaining client trust during a dual agency relationship. REALTORS® should use plain, NAR-compliant language and offer clear explanations of fiduciary responsibilities. 

Let clients know:

• You will treat both parties honestly and fairly.
• You cannot advocate exclusively for one party.
• Confidential information (such as motivations or price limits) must be kept private unless the client gives written consent.

A Disclosed Dual Agent has all the fiduciary duties to the Seller and Buyer that a Seller’s agent or a Buyer’s agent has except the duties of full disclosure and undivided loyalty.

Ethical Considerations Under the NAR Code of Ethics

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) permits disclosed dual agency under its Code of Ethics, provided it is legal under state law and both parties give informed consent. According to Standard of Practice 1-5, REALTORS® may represent both parties in the same transaction only after full disclosure to and with informed consent of both parties.

Article 1 of the Code emphasizes protecting and promoting the interests of clients while treating all parties honestly. REALTORS® must act in their clients’ best interests while maintaining fair and ethical dealings throughout the transaction.

Best Practices and Risk Mitigation

Dual agency should never be entered lightly. To minimize risks:

• Always document disclosures and client communications in writing.
• Stay neutral in negotiations and avoid giving strategic advice.
• Review MREC and brokerage policies regularly.
• Take continuing education courses focused on agency relationships.
• Stay up to date with changes such as the Buyer’s Agency Agreement.

Use Consumer Guides to Enhance Understanding

MRI encourages REALTORS® to share trusted, consumer-facing resources during listing and buyer consultations. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) offers a variety of consumer guides that explain real estate concepts in accessible language and promote transparency. These materials are especially helpful when navigating complex agency relationships like dual agency.

Examples of topics covered by NAR consumer guides include:

• Agency and non-agency relationships
• Written buyer agreements
• Buying and selling a home
• Fair housing rights

These guides can be downloaded, emailed, printed for client meetings, or included in listing/buyer packets. Using them supports clear communication, helps set accurate expectations, and strengthens the REALTOR®-client relationship.

Navigate Dual Agency with Confidence

Dual agency is legal in Mississippi, but it requires careful handling, full transparency, and written consent from all parties. By understanding state regulations, following ethical guidelines, and leveraging consumer education tools, Mississippi REALTORS® can manage dual agency with confidence.

At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, we are here to support you with ongoing education, compliance tools, and client communication resources. 

For questions about dual agency, required forms, or upcoming CE courses, contact us or call us directly at  601-932-5241 . Together, we can help you meet your agency obligations with clarity and professionalism.

Homeownership Resources

1. NAR 2025 Code of Ethics
2. NAR Consumer Guide: Agency and Non-Agency Relationships
3. MREC Forms
4. Understanding the New Changes in the Buyer’s Agency Agreement

Homeownership in Mississippi: A Milestone That Builds Community

June marks National Homeownership Month, a time to reflect on the importance of owning a home and to empower more Mississippians to achieve that goal. At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI), we believe homeownership is not just a personal milestone, it’s a pathway to stronger communities, long-term financial security, and a greater sense of stability and pride. Whether you’re a real estate professional supporting clients or an individual ready to take the next step, this is the perfect time to explore the path to homeownership in Mississippi.

The Value of Homeownership in Mississippi

Mississippi continues to rank among the states with the highest homeownership rates. As of early 2025, the U.S. Census Bureau reports that 74.1% of Mississippians own their homes, well above the national average. This high rate reflects both the affordability of our market and a cultural appreciation for the benefits of ownership.

Homeownership contributes to financial growth through equity building, tax benefits, and property appreciation. Beyond finances, it encourages community involvement and provides a stable foundation for individuals and families.

Renting vs. Owning: Making the Right Choice

Homeownership supports financial stability through equity building, potential tax advantages, and the opportunity for property appreciation over time. Beyond the financial aspects, owning a home can offer greater control over living spaces, stability in housing costs, and a stronger connection to local neighborhoods. It also encourages greater civic engagement and investment in surrounding communities.

Renting may make more sense for individuals who prioritize flexibility, are saving for a down payment, or are not ready for the responsibilities of ownership. It’s essential for REALTORS® to help clients evaluate their goals, finances, and lifestyle before making the leap.

Guidance for First-Time Homebuyers

Buying a first home is exciting, but it can also be intimidating. First-time buyers should start by:

• Reviewing their credit and finances
• Exploring mortgage options
• Understanding the full cost of homeownership (insurance, taxes, maintenance)

Educational tools and resources from the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) can help buyers prepare. HUD offers homeownership resources, counseling, and financial assistance programs specifically tailored to first-time buyers. 

Encourage clients to take advantage of homebuyer education courses to better understand the process and avoid common pitfalls.

The First Steps to Buying a Home in Mississippi

For prospective buyers, knowing where to begin is half the battle. Here are four essential steps to get started:

1. Assess Your Financial Situation

Buyers should evaluate their credit score, debt-to-income ratio, and savings for a down payment and closing costs. Budgeting now can prevent surprises later.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Pre-approval strengthens a buyer’s offer and shows sellers they are serious. It involves a credit check, income verification, and a review of financial documents. In Mississippi’s competitive market, many sellers require pre-approval before scheduling showings.

3. Work with a Mississippi REALTOR®

A REALTOR® brings local expertise, negotiation skills, and a commitment to ethical service. REALTORS® can help clients:

• Find properties that match their criteria
• Make competitive offers
• Understand legal documents
• Navigate the closing process

4. Begin House Hunting

With a REALTOR® by their side and a pre-approval letter in hand, buyers can explore listings confidently and efficiently.

For those still learning the ropes, the First Time Buyer™ resource from NAR offers stories, strategies, and tips to help new buyers navigate the process from start to finish.

Investing in Real Estate for Passive Income

Homeownership is not just for personal use, it can also be a gateway to investment income. Mississippi offers a favorable environment for investors, especially in single-family rentals, which are in high demand.

Rental properties can provide:

• Monthly passive income
• Long-term appreciation
• Tax advantages such as depreciation and mortgage interest deductions

For REALTORS® working with investor clients, it’s important to discuss:

• Local rental demand
• Zoning laws and landlord responsibilities
• The value of professional property management

Investors should also explore opportunities in opportunity zones and areas experiencing revitalization to maximize their return.

What to Expect in the Mississippi Housing Market in 2025

Mississippi remains one of the most affordable states for homeownership, offering opportunities for both first-time buyers and investors. While real estate markets across the country continue to adapt to shifting interest rates and inventory levels, Mississippi’s housing market has shown relative stability, supported by consistent demand and a low cost of living.

Market conditions can vary across regions, REALTORS® should stay informed about local market trends through MLS data, state and regional housing reports, and tools available through the NAR.

How REALTORS® Support Buyers During Homeownership Month

Homeownership Month is more than a celebration, it’s a call to action. REALTORS® can make a meaningful impact by:

• Using NAR’s Homeownership Month Toolkit to share graphics, homebuying tips, and client success stories across platforms. 
• Hosting homebuyer workshops or webinars to educate clients about financing, market conditions, and the homebuying process.
• Connecting buyers with trusted professionals, including lenders, inspectors, and homeownership counselors.
• Advocating for housing opportunities by supporting local and state policies that improve affordability and access to homeownership.

By actively engaging with their communities, REALTORS® reinforce their role as trusted advisors and champions for sustainable homeownership throughout Mississippi.

The Journey Starts Now

At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, we are committed to helping real estate professionals and homebuyers succeed. As we celebrate Homeownership Month, we encourage every REALTOR® to deepen their knowledge, share resources, and guide clients with confidence.

For homebuyers, this is your moment. Take the first step toward a brighter future, and connect with a REALTOR® who can help you navigate the path to ownership in Mississippi. 

If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us or call us directly at 601-932-5241. Together, we can make the dream of homeownership a reality—this June and every day after.

Homeownership Resources

1. NAR Homeownership Month Resources
2. NAR Housing Opportunity Grants
3. HUD Mississippi Resources
4. Exploring the Profile of Today’s Home Buyers
5. Understanding the Homebuying Process

Fair Housing Month: A Moment to Reflect, A Mission to Carry Forward

April is nationally recognized as Fair Housing Month, when we honor the passing of the Fair Housing Act of 1968. This law prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), national origin, familial status, or disability.

While April brings fair housing to the forefront, at the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI), we believe fair housing is a daily commitment. As REALTORS®, practicing fairness, inclusion, and equality is not limited to one month. It’s a year-round responsibility that shapes every client relationship and community we serve.

To support REALTORS® nationwide, the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) offers a comprehensive Fair Housing Month Toolkit packed with resources to help reinforce this critical mission.

Fair Housing Is Not Seasonal, It’s Foundational

While Fair Housing Month encourages us to pause and reflect, the principles of fair housing are practices we commit to every day. At MRI, we aim to highlight educational tools that help Mississippi REALTORS® recognize implicit bias, prevent discriminatory practices, and uphold the values of fairness and professionalism throughout every real estate transaction.

Upholding fair housing is not just an ethical obligation, it’s a requirement. REALTORS® must also comply with the Mississippi Real Estate Commission (MREC) guidelines, which mandate regular continuing education.

Year-Round Commitment to Fair Housing

Fair housing is a daily practice that shapes the foundation of our industry. By staying informed, completing continuing education, and applying fair housing principles in every client interaction, REALTORS® help build stronger, more inclusive communities across Mississippi.

At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, we encourage all real estate professionals to make fair housing education an ongoing priority through professional development, CE courses, local advocacy, and a steadfast commitment to ethical business practices.

Every REALTOR® Has a Role to Play

As of January 1, 2025, the National Association of REALTORS® mandates that all members complete at least two hours of Fair Housing training every three years, aligning with the Code of Ethics training cycle. This requirement aims to reinforce REALTORS®’ commitment to equitable housing practices. 

To fulfill this requirement, NAR offers several educational resources:​

• Fairhaven: A Fair Housing Simulation: An interactive online platform that places REALTORS® in real-life scenarios to identify and address discriminatory practices. This course is free for NAR members and satisfies the new training mandate. ​
• Bias Override: Overcoming Barriers to Fair Housing: A certificate course designed to help REALTORS® recognize and overcome implicit biases, ensuring fair treatment for all clients
• At Home With Diversity (AHWD): A certification course that prepares real estate professionals to work effectively in increasingly diverse markets. Available online and in person.

Beyond meeting educational requirements, REALTORS® can further support fair housing by:​

• Integrating fair housing principles daily: Consistently applying fair housing laws in all transactions and client interactions.​
• Engaging with local communities: Collaborating with local organizations to promote housing equity and access.​
• Reporting discrimination: If you encounter or witness discriminatory practices, report them to the appropriate authorities, such as the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).​

Together, We Build a Fairer Future

Fair Housing Month serves as an important reminder of both the progress we have made and the work that still lies ahead in ensuring equal access to housing for all.

At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, we remain steadfast in our commitment to promoting fair housing practices, advancing education, and helping to build more inclusive and equitable communities across Mississippi.

Let’s continue to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to find their perfect home, today, tomorrow, and every day.

Fair Housing Resources

1. NAR – Fair Housing Month Toolkit
2. Mississippi Real Estate Commission – License Law
3. HUD – Fair Housing Rights and Obligations
4. HUD – File a Housing Discrimination Complaint
5. NAR – Fair Housing Resources
6. Celebrating Fair Housing Month with the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute