Hey everyone! Scott Asner here! Today I want to discuss the fast-paced world of real estate and how 2024 is proving to be a year of technological breakthroughs that promise to redefine the industry. From streamlined transactions to immersive property experiences, let’s take a brief look at the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of real estate. 

1. Blockchain Revolution 

Say goodbye to cumbersome paperwork and hello to secure, transparent transactions. Blockchain technology is infiltrating real estate transactions, providing an unalterable ledger that ensures trust and minimizes the risk of fraud. Smart contracts are streamlining the buying and selling process, making it more efficient and secure for all parties involved. 

2. AI-Powered Predictive Analytics 

Artificial Intelligence is taking center stage with predictive analytics, offering invaluable insights for both buyers and sellers. Machine learning algorithms sift through vast datasets, predicting market trends, property values, and investment opportunities. This data-driven approach empowers real estate professionals to make informed decisions tailored to individual needs and market dynamics. 

3. Virtual and Augmented Reality Property Tours 

Imagine touring a property without leaving your living room. In 2023, virtual and augmented reality are turning this dream into reality. Virtual reality headsets offer immersive property experiences, allowing potential buyers to explore homes in detail remotely. Augmented reality enhances physical property visits by overlaying relevant information, such as property history and amenities. 

4. 5G Connectivity Boosts Efficiency 

The advent of 5G technology is revolutionizing real estate operations. With lightning-fast connectivity, professionals can access real-time property data, facilitating quicker decision-making. Virtual meetings, collaborative efforts, and property tours are smoother than ever, fostering a more connected and efficient real estate ecosystem. 

5. Proptech Platforms for Seamless Operations 

Proptech platforms are becoming indispensable tools for real estate professionals in 2023. These all-in-one solutions integrate various technologies, such as AI and blockchain, to streamline property management, automate workflows, and enhance the overall customer experience. From marketing to transactions, proptech platforms are redefining the way real estate is conducted. 

That is all for today folks! I hope this article inspires you to research and dive deeper into these technological advancements of real estate. Embracing these innovations is not only a choice but a necessity for staying ahead in an industry that continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace. Welcome to the tech-forward era of real estate in 2024! 

~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri     

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Hey everyone, Scott Asner here!  

Time management is a crucial skill that can significantly impact your personal and professional life. When you effectively manage your time, you can increase productivity and achieve your goals more efficiently.  

Today, I wanted to share my top 10 tips for effective time management. 

1. Set Clear Goals 

The first step in effective time management is to establish clear and, most importantly, achievable goals. Define what you want to accomplish, both in the short term and the long term. Having specific objectives in mind will help you prioritize tasks and allocate your time efficiently. You can use the SMART acronym to make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.  

2. Prioritize Tasks 

I like to use methods, like the Eisenhower Matrix, to categorize  tasks into four quadrants: urgent and important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, and neither urgent nor important. Focus on the tasks that fall into the urgent and important category first to maximize your productivity and reduce stress. 

3.  Create a To Do List 

A to-do list is a simple yet key tool for time management. Write down all the tasks you need to complete and organize them by priority. As you finish each task, mark it off the list. This not only keeps you on track but also provides a sense of accomplishment. 

4. Time Blocking  

Time blocking is a method where you can allocate specific time slots to different tasks or activities. Create a daily or weekly schedule that designates periods for focused work, meetings, breaks, and personal time. Stick to your schedule as closely as possible to avoid distractions and procrastination. 

5. Limit Distractions  

This one is a tough one for me, but it is the most significant as well. Identify common distractions in your work environment and take steps to minimize them. Turn off notifications on your devices, close unnecessary browser tabs, and communicate your need for focus to colleagues or family members when necessary.  

6. Learn To Say No  

One of the most challenging aspects of time management is learning to say no to tasks, projects, or commitments that don’t align with your goals or priorities. Keep yourself as the priority! 

7. Delegate and Outscore 

This is a big one for those at the office! Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks that others can handle. Whether at work or in your personal life, delegating responsibilities can free up valuable time for more important activities. Consider outsourcing tasks that require specialized skills or expertise. This can also help you relax and take some tasks out of your mind. 

8. Take Regular Breaks 

Taking breaks may seem counterintuitive to time management, but they are essential for maintaining focus and productivity. Short, regular breaks can help recharge your energy and prevent burnout. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in focused intervals with short breaks in between. 

9. Learn to Manage Stress 

Stress can be a significant barrier to effective time management. Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise to keep stress levels in check. When you’re less stressed, you’re better equipped to make rational decisions about how to use your time. 

10. Review and Adjust 

Regularly evaluate your time management strategies and make adjustments as needed. Reflect on what’s working well and what isn’t. Are you meeting your goals and deadlines? If not, consider trying different techniques or seeking guidance from time management experts. 

I hope you learned some new tips for effective time management and will implement them into your daily life!  

~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri      

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Hey everyone, Scott Asner here!  

Today, I want to highlight the benefits of practicing mindfulness in daily life. We often find ourselves multitasking, thinking about the past or worrying about the future, and rarely taking a moment to fully experience the present moment. Mindfulness is a simple practice that can help us bring our attention to the here and now. Whether you’re focusing on your breathing, meditating, walking, or just paying attention to the world around you, the benefits of practicing any kind of mindfulness at least once a day, definitely has its benefits.  

1. Reduce Stress 

One of the most important benefits of mindfulness is its ability to reduce stress. When we practice mindfulness through meditation or deep breathing, we focus our attention on the present, letting go of worries about the future and regrets about the past. This can help lower the production of stress hormones, leading to a greater sense of peace. 

2. Improve Mental Health  

Mindfulness can also improve our ability to regulate our emotions. When exercise mindfulness, like journaling and reflecting on your present moment, we can become more aware of our emotional responses and can choose how to respond to them. Mindfulness also helps us be at peace with ourselves and our environment by giving us a feeling of gratitude and control. This can lead to greater emotional stability and a reduced likelihood of reacting impulsively in stressful situations!  

4.  Increase Focus and Concentration  

In this digital age, our attention spans are constantly being pulled in various directions. Mindfulness can help us sharpen our focus and concentration by training our minds to stay on task and resist distractions. This can lead to better mental strength and overall mental health as well, ultimately helping us in workplaces, school and daily life in general. 

5. Improve Relationships 

Mindfulness can have a positive impact on our relationships with others. It allows us to become better listeners and are more present when interacting with loved ones, which strengthens our key relationships and allows us to feel better support from those around us. It also allows those around us to feel more support and heard from us.

That’s all for today folks! I hope this article inspired you to tap into your own mental health and start practicing mindfulness in your daily life! See you next time! 

 
~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri     

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Hi everyone! Scott Asner here! Today I will be giving some tips on procrastination and how to boost your productivity. Procrastination, the art of delaying tasks, is a struggle that we all face in pursuit of productivity. Whether it’s putting off work tasks, household chores, or personal goals, like the gym for example, procrastination can be a challenge when achieving success. However, with the right strategies and mindset shifts, it is possible to overcome procrastination and unlock your full potential. 

Understand the Psychology Behind Procrastination 

Before delving into strategies to overcome procrastination, it’s important to understand why you are putting things off. Procrastination often arises from a combination of perfectionism, fear, and lack of motivation in managing time effectively. Recognizing these factors can help you tackle procrastination at its roots. It’s important to know that not everything needs to be perfect, or done all at once. What matters is taking the first step towards completing your task.  

Break Tasks into Smaller Steps 

One big reason for procrastination is the feeling of being overwhelmed by the size of a task. Try breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Each smaller step will feel more achievable, and as you complete them one by one, you’ll build a sense of accomplishment that can motivate you to keep going. 

Set Clear and Realistic Goals 
 

This is a key step to become more productive: setting clear and realistic goals. Overly ambitious goals can lead to uncertainty and demotivation. Try and structure your goals by making them specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound, or SMART. This framework will give you a roadmap to follow, making it easier to focus on tasks without feeling overwhelmed. 

Create a Structured Routine 

By establishing a structured daily routine, you can combat procrastination by creating a sense of order and predictability. Allocate specific time blocks for different tasks and stick to this routine as much as possible. This approach not only ensures that important tasks are completed but also minimizes the temptation to procrastinate since you’ve already dedicated time for each activity. 

That’s all for today folks! I hope these tips helped you get out of your procrastination funk and get on to being more productive!  

 
~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri     

Also follow Scott Asner on: Medium, About.me, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook, and Xing 

Hey guys, Scott Asner here! Today I will be sharing my favorite coffee spots in Kansas City! 

Coffee is a social conversation starter essential, an icebreaker for any networking agenda and a great way to spend time with family and friends. So keep reading to find out where to grab a great pick-me-up in Kansas City. 

Second Best Coffee 

For espresso fans, Second Best Coffee is the best way to go. Not only do they use a Slayer Espresso Machine, they also source their beans globally and roast them locally. For any vegans out there (or anyone who likes alternative milks), Second Best’s amazing, perfectly roasted coffee beans blend beautifully with their own homemade almond milk.  

Messenger Coffee Co. 

Like your coffee with a view? Messenger Coffee is a perfect blend of great coffee, great conversation, and great views. The Crossroads building that houses the shop has rooftop seating with stunning views of downtown Kansas City. You can even tour the Messenger Coffee Co. coffee lab as well as the roastery. 

HITIDES Coffee  

Looking for a perfect snack to compliment your coffee date? HITIDES Coffee offers an array of sweets and pastries to combine with your cappuccino. Inspired by the tropics, the warm interiors welcome you to drink your coffee and enjoy decadent sweets with Donutology doughnuts in a Hawaiian ambiance.  

I hope that this blog helped you choose where your next cup of coffee will come from! Thanks for reading, see you all soon! 

~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri   

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Hello everyone! It’s Scott Asner here! Kansas City is incredibly diverse, and I love being able to show my appreciation for the city and my community. There are so many ways that you can be an active participant and contributor to your community and if you are interested in ways to get active and give back, keep reading!  

Show Support for Local Sports Teams 

Here is an easy one for all of the sports lovers like myself: go out and show your support for your favorite local teams! You can do this by wearing team colors or merchandise on game days, as well as going out and physically attending some games to cheer the team on, which will help you bond with your fellow sports fans! As a huge Kansas City Chiefs fan, you can always find me keeping tabs on the games!  

Join a Local Class or Group 

One great way to get active in the community is to join a local class or a social group doing something that you’re passionate about. This can range in anything from a yoga class to a parent and child art group, like Thursday Toddler Time at  Ceramic Cafe in Kansas for example. Not only will this help you to show support for local groups and classes, it will also introduce you to people in your community who share your passions and interests. 

Shop Locally 

Arguably, one of the best ways to support your local community is by supporting small local businesses. Whether that be through buying a cup of coffee each Monday morning at a small local cafe, like Made In KC Cafe in Kansas City, trading or purchasing books from a local bookstore or treating yourself to a new sweater from a local clothing store, there are many ways to go out and show your support for local small business owners. 

Volunteer and Donate 

Volunteering and donating some of your resources weekly is an excellent way to get active in the local community. You could start dog walking, babysitting, volunteering at local sporting activities like a high school football game. Giving back is an essential part of any community, and if you don’t have the time to volunteer, then you can donate some resources. Clothes to the Salvation Army or local thrift shops, food to your local food bank and bed linens to your local homeless shelter are always needed.  

If you love your local community just as much as I do, getting involved and staying active in your community is easy! Whether you just moved to Kansas City or you’re a long-time community member, I hope this list provided you with some good ideas about staying active in your local community. 

~ Scott Asner, Founding Principal of Eighteen Capital Group (18CG) in Kansas City, Missouri  

 
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