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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

When you’re ready to start—or continue—your journey in Mississippi real estate, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing how to take your required courses. Whether you’re preparing for licensure or working to renew your license, the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI) offers real estate license classes in Mississippi, available both in-person and online.

This guide breaks down the benefits of each format so you can choose the best fit for your professional development.

Online Real Estate Courses: Flexibility at Your Fingertips

Online learning is a popular choice for those who need flexibility. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or a busy schedule, online courses offer the convenience of self-paced study and remote access.

Benefits of Online Classes at MRI:

• Study at your own pace, anywhere
• Access materials for six months from the date of registration
• Resume where you left off—your progress is automatically saved
• Available across multiple devices and formats
• Ideal for motivated learners with basic computer skills 

MRI offers a wide range of online courses, including:

• Salesperson Pre-License Course

• Salesperson Post-License Course

• Online Continuing Education (CE)

• Online Broker Pre-Licensing Course

   

In-Person Real Estate Courses: Structure, Support, and Interaction

If you thrive with structured schedules, face-to-face interaction, and live instruction, in-person classes offer a strong learning environment that promotes accountability and engagement.

Advantages of In-Person Learning:

• Real-time guidance from experienced instructors
• Peer discussion and collaboration
• Set schedules to keep you on track
• Networking opportunities with fellow professionals 

MRI offers classroom-based options for many courses around the state, such as:

• Salesperson Post-License Course
• Broker Post-License Course
• PSI Licensing Exam Review Courses
• Required and Elective Continuing Education (CE) Courses 

Not sure what CE you need? The National Association of REALTORS® offers a helpful overview of Continuing Education Requirements by State.

Choosing What Works for You: Self-Paced vs. Classroom Real Estate Courses

Whether you’re a first-time student or a seasoned agent pursuing CE, both formats can help you achieve your goals. Consider:

• Do you prefer the freedom of self-paced learning? 
• Are you motivated to complete coursework independently?
• Or do you learn better in structured, face-to-face environments? 

Whichever path you choose, MRI provides access to exam prep tools, textbooks, and professional development resources to support your learning. 

Supporting Your Career Through Ethical Excellence

No matter your experience level, all REALTORS® are required by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) to complete Code of Ethics training every three years. MRI offers this course both online and in person. 

MRI’s course counts for 4 hours of GRI credit and equips students with the principles and real-world understanding that set REALTORS® apart.

Looking Ahead: Elevate Your Career with Designations

Choosing between online and in-person classes is just the beginning. As you grow in your career, you may want to pursue advanced designations like the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI). This designation demonstrates advanced knowledge in areas like contract law, marketing, fair housing, and risk management.

In Mississippi, GRI designation requires 60 hours of instructor-led coursework through MRI. Learn more about this respected credential at NAR’s Designations & Certifications page or view our own GRI course overview.

Frequently Asked Questions About Real Estate Classes in Mississippi

Can I take real estate license classes online in Mississippi?

Yes. The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute offers fully online options for Salesperson Pre-License, Salesperson Post-License, Broker Pre-Licensing, and Continuing Education courses. Online classes are self-paced, accessible for six months, and designed for flexibility around your schedule.

Are in-person real estate classes available in Mississippi?

Yes. MRI provides in-person classes at its Flowood and Nesbit locations. These include Salesperson Post-License, Broker Post-License, Continuing Education, and PSI exam prep courses. In-person formats are ideal for learners who prefer structure, classroom interaction, and live instruction.

What’s better: online or in-person real estate classes?

It depends on your learning style and schedule. Online real estate courses offer flexibility and self-paced learning, while in-person classes provide structure, live instructor support, and peer interaction. Both formats are approved by the Mississippi Real Estate Commission and offered through MRI.

Start Learning with Mississippi REALTORS® Institute

At MRI, we’re committed to helping real estate professionals build strong foundations and grow throughout every stage of their careers. Whether you enroll in an online course or attend class in person, our real estate school in Mississippi provides the tools, resources, and support needed to thrive in the industry.

For more information on in-person and online courses, please contact Mississippi REALTORS® Institute or call us at 601-932-9325. We’re here to support you at every step of your real estate education.

Additional Resources:

Mastering the Code of Ethics

Salesperson Pre-License Guide

Broker License Guide

GRI Designation Guide

The home-buying journey is as diverse as the individuals embarking on it. As real estate professionals, understanding the demographic trends and motivations of today’s buyers can empower you to better serve your clients. The NAR’s recently released ”2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers Final Report” offers valuable insights into the evolving characteristics of home buyers, which REALTORS® can use to refine their strategies and navigate an ever-changing market. These findings are particularly relevant as we approach 2025, a year projected to bring housing market growth, as outlined in NAR’s “10 Housing Hot Spots for 2025”. At the Mississippi REALTORS® Institute, we are committed to equipping real estate professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to stay ahead in this dynamic industry through our education and training programs tailored to Mississippi’s market.

The Characteristics of Home Buyers: A Snapshot of 2024 Trends

The ”2024 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers Final Report” highlights several notable trends among buyers:

• Age Dynamics: The median age of home buyers rose to 56, reflecting the influence of repeat buyers (median age: 61) in today’s market. First-time buyers, however, remain younger, with a median age of 38.
• Household Composition: Married couples continue to dominate the market (62%), but single women (20%) are also a significant buyer group, often driven by financial independence and long-term wealth-building goals.
• Motivations for Buying: Among first-time buyers, the desire to own a home (22%) remains the primary motivator. For many repeat buyers, proximity to family and friends (14%) is key.
• Decline in First-Time Buyers: First-time buyers represent only 24% of the market, the lowest since 1981, underscoring challenges such as high home prices and limited inventory.

Connecting Trends to 2025 Housing Predictions

The insights from this report align closely with NAR’s predictions for the  “10 Housing Hot Spots for 2025.” Key takeaways include:

1. First-Time Buyers and Starter Homes

Markets like Charlotte, NC, and Knoxville, TN, are expected to thrive due to their inventory of affordable starter homes—exactly the kind of property younger buyers seek. According to the report, affordability and access to inventory remain top priorities for this demographic.

2. Job Growth and Net Migration

Cities with strong job markets and population growth, such as San Antonio, TX, and Grand Rapids, MI, are projected to attract new buyers. The 2024 Profile also highlights buyers’ preference for areas with proximity to family and friends—factors often linked to economic opportunities and migration patterns.

3. Financial Security and Buyer Motivations

The report underscores that buyers with higher household incomes are better equipped to navigate the challenges of today’s market. This ties directly into the article’s emphasis on regions with young professionals poised to transition from renting to homeownership.

Practical Applications for REALTORS®

How can REALTORS® leverage this data to prepare for 2025 and beyond? Here are some actionable strategies:

Focus on Educating First-Time Buyers

The decline in first-time buyers highlights the need for education and guidance. Consider offering workshops or online resources that break down the complexities of homebuying. The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute offers continuing education courses that can help REALTORS® better support this demographic.

Target Growth Markets

If you’re serving regions like Jackson, MS, keep an eye on migration trends and job growth indicators. Align your marketing efforts with the priorities of these new residents by showcasing affordable housing options or starter homes.

Leverage Digital Tools for Buyer Outreach

The 2024 Profile revealed that most buyers begin their search online, with nearly 86% working with a real estate agent. Make sure your website is optimized for SEO, features engaging content, and uses tools like MLS listings to capture leads.

Highlight Community Appeal

Given the emphasis on neighborhood quality, REALTORS® can benefit from emphasizing the unique aspects of their local markets. Whether it’s proximity to schools, parks, or thriving downtowns, these details can make all the difference.

Why It Matters: Insights for Mississippi REALTORS®

The housing market may be national, but its impacts are local. The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute encourages agents to stay ahead of these trends by continually educating themselves. As the 2025 housing rebound takes shape, REALTORS® who understand the demographics and motivations of today’s buyers will be well-positioned to succeed.

For more information on preparing for these changes, check out our upcoming continuing education courses or contact us directly at 601-932-5241.

The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) Code of Ethics training deadline is quickly approaching. All REALTORS® must complete their training by December 31, 2024, to stay compliant and retain their membership privileges. The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute (MRI) offers a convenient online course designed to help you fulfill this requirement on time. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the steps to register, outline the benefits of this training, and highlight essential details to ensure you meet the deadline stress-free.

For a comprehensive look at the importance of the Code of Ethics, you can also check out our previous blog on Mastering the Code of Ethics.​

Why the Code of Ethics Training Matters

NAR’s Code of Ethics training is a requirement for all REALTORS®, emphasizing the principles of integrity, professionalism, and client service. Completing this training helps you:

• Stay updated on ethical practices.
• Navigate complex real estate situations with integrity.
• Build trust with clients, fostering a positive industry reputation.

Failing to complete the training by the December 31 deadline could result in suspension of your NAR membership and other associated benefits. For answers to common questions, please visit our Code of Ethics FAQ section.

How to Register for the Code of Ethics Online Course

The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute has streamlined the process to help you complete your Code of Ethics training online. Follow these simple steps:

1. Visit the MRI Course Page: Go to the Code of Ethics Online Course page on MRI’s website to access the course description and register.
2. Enroll and Purchase the Course: The course includes three hours of training. Click “Add to Cart” to start the registration process.
3. Complete the Course at Your Own Pace: Once enrolled, you can complete the training on your schedule, making it convenient for busy professionals.

What the Course Covers

The “Ethics at Work” course by MRI is designed to meet NAR’s Cycle 7 requirements. This course includes key modules that ensure REALTORS® are well-prepared to handle ethical challenges in the industry. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Course Highlights

• Ethics Renewal and Licensing Requirements: Learn the latest ethical renewal and licensing requirements specific to real estate professionals.
• Promoting Ethical Behavior: Explore the importance of ethical conduct among NAR members and how it enhances client trust.
• History and Evolution of the Code: Understand the historical context of the Code of Ethics and its impact on licensing laws.
• Structure and Key Articles of the Code: A deep dive into critical articles (e.g., 1, 2, 9, 12, 15, 16) that govern REALTOR® behavior.
• Real-Life Ethical Challenges: Analyze case studies to recognize and resolve real-world ethical dilemmas.
• Mediation and Arbitration: Gain insights into the dispute resolution processes, including the role of Article 17 in arbitrations and hearings.
• Best Practices for Everyday Ethical Conduct: Practical tips for demonstrating ethical behavior consistently in your professional interactions.

Important Details to Keep in Mind

1. Complete the Training Early: Avoid last-minute stress by completing the course well before the December 31, 2024, deadline.
2. Submit Your Certificate: After completing the course, be sure to submit your certificate to your local board to confirm your compliance.
3. Consider the Benefits of Additional Designations: Completing your Code of Ethics training also counts as elective credits toward advanced designations like the Graduate, REALTOR® Institute (GRI), which can further elevate your career.

Staying Compliant and Advancing Your Career

Completing the Code of Ethics training isn’t just about meeting a requirement; it’s a commitment to upholding the standards of the real estate profession. The Mississippi REALTORS® Institute is here to help you not only fulfill this requirement but also to enhance your expertise and professionalism in the industry.

By taking advantage of MRI’s online Code of Ethics course, you’re investing in your professional growth and demonstrating a commitment to ethical excellence. Don’t wait! Register today, and secure your spot in the training program.

Final Reminder

Meeting the Code of Ethics training deadline is essential to maintaining your status as a REALTOR®. Complete your training, submit your certificate, and stay compliant. For more information on the Code of Ethics requirements, visit the NAR Code of Ethics Training page to understand the importance and criteria of this training.

Mississippi REALTORS® Institute is here to support you every step of the way in meeting this deadline and excelling as a real estate professional. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us or call us directly at 601-932-5241 – our team is here to help you succeed.

Resources

• Code of Ethics Online Course
• Mastering the Code of Ethics with Mississippi REALTORS® Institute
• Code of Ethics Online Course – Mississippi REALTORS® Institute
• Code of Ethics FAQ page
• NAR Code of Ethics Training page