The countdown to 2020 is officially on! We’re taking a look back at some interesting patterns from 2019 and discussing our top picks for real estate trends to look out for next year.

When I got into the real estate business at the age of 18, there were no computers being used, no internet, no fax machines and no cell phones. Purchase contracts in many states were one page long and there were no standard disclosure statements and no formal physical inspections. Sellers had one point of contact for access to listings and information: real estate agents. Very few interviewed more than one agent, commission rates were rarely questioned…so, in other words, it was heaven!

Editor’s Note: This is part of a monthly video series from the National Association of REALTORS® to inform and educate members about important aspects of being a real estate professional. Watch for this series each month in RISMedia’s e-News.