Blog | Vesta Property Management

The Differences Between a Real Estate Agent, a Broker, and a Realtor

Key Takeaways License vs. Realtor designation: All agents and brokers are state-licensed, but only members of the National Association of Realtors can use the Realtor title and follow its stricter Code of Ethics. Verify both license type and Realtor status before hiring. Oversight matters: Agents work under a broker; brokers hold final legal responsibility. Ask who the managing broker is and who is accountable for your transaction. Experience counts in Virginia: Broker licenses require more education and active experience in Virginia. Compare …

How to Protect Your Investments from Rising Insurance Premiums

Key Takeaways Proactively manage risk to control premiums. Review your policy annually, update replacement values after upgrades, and add safety features (monitored detectors, roof reinforcements, proper drainage) to qualify for discounts and reduce claim likelihood. Use financial levers strategically. Increase deductibles only if you have reserves, bundle multiple policies for portfolio-wide discounts, and pay for minor repairs out-of-pocket to keep a clean claims record. Treat prevention and documentation as profit protection. Screen residen…

Navigating Real Estate Offers: How to Know You're Getting a Good Price

Key Takeaways A “good” offer is the one that delivers the strongest overall outcome, not just the highest price. Compare price, contingencies, financing strength, and timing together before deciding. Use real market evidence to judge value: Check comparable sales and obtain a professional appraisal to confirm pricing. If the offer aligns with recent comps and appraised value in Virginia, you’re negotiating from a solid baseline. Prioritize certainty and fit with your goals: Favor buyers with verified financing or proof of funds, reasonable con…

How AI Is Changing the Real Estate Industry

Key Takeaways Strategic Decision Support (Not Replacement): AI acts as a strategic layer that enhances human expertise by analyzing large datasets, identifying patterns, and supporting predictive decision-making. Operational Efficiency Across the Lifecycle: AI improves efficiency, reduces costs, and streamlines operations at every stage of the real estate value chain. Smarter Risk and Investment Insights: AI strengthens due diligence and risk assessment through scenario modeling, market analysis, and consistent scoring, helping investors make…

What Experienced Investors Regret Not Doing Early

Key Takeaways Start Early and Let Time Work for You: Early action allows compounding, learning, and steady growth to do the heavy lifting over time. Build Strategy, Systems, and Knowledge First: Successful long-term investing depends on clear goals, financial education, and scalable processes. Investors who skipped these foundations early often faced slower growth, higher risk, and operational challenges later. Leverage Expertise to Avoid Costly Mistakes: Trying to do everything alone often leads to preventable errors. Partnering early with p…