IF I ONLY HAD A HAMMER...

You, as real estate agents, all carry around an imaginary tool box that you use as the need arises.

When you passed the state exam you all got to put your first "tool" (let's call it a hammer) in your tool box. Unfortunately, for many, that "hammer" is still the only tool in their tool kit.
The real estate PROFESSIONAL is ALWAYS looking to add new tools.

The county GIS site, Courthouse Retrieval System, handling a VA, conventional, FHA, or USDA purchase, negotiating with lenders in short sales, just to name a few...each require a special "tool" to properly do the job.

You either need to have that tool in your OWN tool box, or be able to borrow from someone else's. (note: make sure you are borrowing from someone that has some expertise. For example, there is a difference between someone that says they know how to wire a house and a licensed electrician !)

The best way to add tools to your tool box is by current and constant education, and "productive" training.
What you do has the potential to impact people's lives. You have a responsibility to your clients to do your job the absolute best you can.
Be prepared with the proper tool.

As they say, "If the only tool in your tool box is a hammer, then everything looks like a nail."