Recent Blog Posts

The amazing members of ActiveRain produce hundreds of blog posts every single day of the year.  There is a wonderful mix of all things real estate and beyond for your reading pleasure.

This board rolls all day long with the newest blog posts to our site. You’ll find some diamonds in the rough on this page, so check back often to peruse the blog roll and learn from our committed community of real estate professionals.

The newest blog posts on ActiveRain

Gaithersburg is Seeking the Next Junior MayorFourth graders in Gaithersburg are encouraged to write essays telling us what they would do if they were mayor. The theme, to be explored in 275 words or less, is “Inspiring Leadership in your City/Community.”  Students are asked to write about the ways elected officials inspire leadership in their communities and to share a project they would take on that would make others want to help make the City better. Finalists will be invited to a panel interview, with the winner being selected as Gaithersburg’s next Junior Mayor. The submission deadline is April 5.Click here of entry details.This is a City of Gaithersburg, Maryland announcement. Pelargonium, Longwood Gardens Photowalk, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania USA IMG 1080Canon PowerShot G11 Came...
Comments 2
By Tim L. Ramey
(RG Realty Group)
 Good afternoon and hello there again.  Hope you are doing well and had a wonderful St Patrick's Day Weekend.  Wanted to share Tim's Time Outs again.  LIVE JOY: Don't wait for success to bring joy to your life. LIVE in JOY and by so doing you'll bring truly meaningful success to your pursuits. Be joyful for no reason other than because it's so good for you, and for the world around you.  Remember that whatever you're doing, you'll do it more effectively when you're felling life's joy.   When the challenges come,(and they will), meet them with joy and transform them into valuable achievements.  When the disappointments come,(and they will), be joyful that you now have the opportunity to move beyond them.   It's difficult for anything to bring you down when you constantly realign your foc...
Comments 1
By Cara Marcelle Mancuso, Call a Marana neighbor, I'm THERE!
(Golden Girls with SW Desert Homes)
Listed by the Golden Girls with SW Desert Homes, Cara Mancuso, 520-909-2988Welcome to your new home! Step into this beautifully updated, split floor plan featuring not one, but two spacious primary suites. Wake up to breathtaking sunrise and mountain views streaming in through the expansive east-facing windows.Your inner chef will rejoice in the cook's kitchen complete with extended, solid wood cabinetry providing ample storage, lazy Susan, and a charming coffee bar area. Hosting friends and family is a breeze with under cabinet lighting, a gas stove and oven, newer appliances, quartz countertops, and a generously sized kitchen island.You'll find fresh updates, including newer interior paint and hardscape ceramic tile flooring throughout. The bathrooms have been tastefully renovated wit...
Comments 5
By Brandon Jordan
(ERA American Real Estate)
Helped the buyers on this home, was on the market less than a month, including Christmas and New Years, that is the time to buy is during the off season (non tourist times with beaches travel) in our area of northwest Florida. I wrote about this being under contract but we closed this one within 3 weeks just catching up on posting about the sale. I have always liked the location around Steeplechase its convenient to Interstate 10 and in town trips. Crestview has grown to the point you can appreciate having a light to go to the local Publix grocery.   Address: 206 Secretariat Drive, Crestview, FL 32539 County: Okaloosa Area: 25 - Crestview Area Sub Area: 2501 Crestview Southeast Project Name/Subdivision: STEEPLECHASE PH 1 Zoning: Resid Single Family Parcel ID: 28-3N-23-2350-000A-0030 Ele...
Comments 3
By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
If you’re considering selling but not quite sure, here are 5 signs that might indicate it’s time to take that next step 👇➡ If your current home doesn’t quite match your lifestyle anymore, it might be a sign to consider selling. Maybe your family is growing, or you’re now an empty-nester looking for something cozier.➡ Do you often find yourself bumping into furniture or wishing for more storage? If your home is starting to feel a little cramped, that’s a signal it could be time to move on to a bigger place where you can stretch out and breathe freely.➡ If you’re looking to downsize and free up some money for other goals, like travel, investments, or starting a business, selling might be a smart move to help you achieve those dreams.➡ Are you feeling the itch to live in a different neighb...
Comments 2
By Chuck Carstensen, Minnesota/Wisconsin Real Estate Expert
(RE/MAX Results)
1386 Highway 23, Ogilvie, MN 56358 -- $79,900Peaceful and affordable acreage property for sale in Ogilvie with a two bedroom, two bathroom mobile home. This Ogilvie home for sale rests on a scenic three acre lot with a beautiful yard and a pond. Located close to Tosher Creek State Wildlife Management Area, Fish Lake and Ann Lake--both known for great fishing with a wide variety of fish including crappie, bluegill, bass, northern pike, walleye, perch and more--an angler’s dream! Built 1990 Deck Open living room/kitchen design Vaulted ceiling Pantry Primary BR w/walk-in closet & private BA Roof is believed to be approximately six years of age Furnace is approximately two years old AS-IS sale Contact Chuck Carstensen with Re/Max Results at 612-290-3809 to set up your showing today!
Comments 1
By Tim Tanz, St Louis Real Estate
(Platinum Realty)
I wanted to share a short video I created that explains what I believe is the most important step when beginning your home search.  Please be kind, as I am new to video...I have been representing home buyers and home sellers in the St Louis Metropolitan Area since 1997 - 26 years!  I am an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), and GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute). Affiliations: Member St Louis Association of Realtors (SLAR), Member Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR), Member National Association of Realtors (NAR), Member Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC).St Louis Real Estate, St Louis Real Estate Agent, St Louis Realtor, St Louis Realty, St. Louis City and St. Louis County Residential Real Estate, Homes, Condos, Lofts & Town-homes, Gay St Louis Real Estate.St. Louis City ...
Comments 0
By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
San Juan Capistrano Weekly Market Update March 11th - 17th, 2024 Mesa Verde BACK ON THE MARKET Via Flores | 3 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1646 sq. ft. | $1,199,000
Comments 0
By E. Steve Banis, Jr., https://www.SouthCarolinaHomesInc.com
(South Carolina Homes Inc.)
🈚▐►NO BANK RENT to OWN House 3bd Summerville-Charleston🈚▐►NO BANK QUALIFYING RENT to OWN Brick House 3bd Summerville-CharlestonSee Video Tour on our WholeSale Buyer Website Below ★Two Rent to Own Options to Choose ★ or Buy Outright for Cash Discount  ★ JUST RENOVATED & UPDATED - SEE WEBSITE BELOW★ ★BUY HERE AVAILABLE TODAY!! 3 bd BRICK HOUSE RENOVATED  PLUS LAND – NEW APPLIANCES, Large Yard Front and Back, Trees, PLUS Shed! MORE! ★ ★ BUY HERE  WholeSale Buyer Values see:✴️▐► SCInvestmentProperties.com ★ ★★ We contact ALL who Visit Our FREE Preferred Buyer VIPCall Steve for Appointment★ ★See Our BUYER Website Below to BUY Your Next House - Mobile Home or Land for CASH:   SEE On Our BUYER WEBSITE to Buy a Home We Are the Mt Pleasant SC Real Estate Investment Company. Serving the Greater C...
Comments 0
By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Are you thinking about buying a home soon? If so, you should know today’s market is competitive in many areas because the number of homes for sale is still low – and that’s leading to multiple-offer scenarios. And moving into the peak homebuying season this spring, this is only expected to ramp up more. Remember these four tips to make your best offer. 1. Partner with a Real Estate Agent Rely on a real estate agent who can support your goals. As PODS notes: “Making an offer on a home without an agent is certainly possible, but having a pro by your side gives you a massive advantage in figuring out what to offer on a house.” Agents are local market experts. They know what’s worked for other buyers in your area and what sellers may be looking for. That advice can be game changing when you...
Comments 0
By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
We can always learn from each other in the Rain and Hugh has a great blog you may of miss. In the competitive world of real estate, attracting qualified buyers to your listings can be a challenge. To stand out from the crowd, it's crucial to employ innovative marketing strategies that capture attention and showcase your properties in the best light. With the proper approach, you can connect with potential buyers who are ready and eager to make a move. Understanding your audience is key to any successful real estate marketing plan. By honing in on the lifestyles, needs, and preferences of your ideal clients, you can tailor your marketing efforts to resonate with them on a personal level. From high-quality visuals to targeted online campaigns, there are numerous tactics you can use to piq...
Comments 1
By Trish Cole
(Veterans United Home Loans of Puget Sound NMLS#1907)
Understanding VA Loan Entitlement can help in maximizing your benefits. Veterans and service members who qualify for a VA loan are entitled to certain benefits provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Central to these benefits is the concept of VA loan entitlement, a vital aspect of securing a mortgage with favorable terms. However, navigating the intricacies of VA entitlement can be complex. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of VA loan entitlement, including basic vs. bonus entitlement, and how they impact your down payment and maximum loan amount. What is VA Loan Entitlement?VA loan entitlement represents the dollar amount that the Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees to repay to a lender in the event of default on a VA home loan. Essentially, it serv...
Comments 1
By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Welcome, dear home sellers, to the ultimate crash course in open house preparation – where we'll tackle everything from tidying up to taming the chaos with a sprinkle of humor and a dollop of practical advice. So, grab your cleaning supplies and your sense of humor, because it's time to whip your home into tip-top shape and wow potential buyers with your impeccable hosting skills. Let's dive in! Declutter Like You're Marie Kondo's Long-Lost Cousin Ah, clutter – the mortal enemy of open houses everywhere. It's time to bid farewell to unnecessary knick-knacks, dusty tchotchkes, and that collection of mismatched socks you've been hoarding since the '90s. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and declutter like it's nobody's business – trust me, your potential buyers will thank you for the breath...
Comments 3
By Brian England, MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ
(Ambrose Realty Management LLC)
💥Federal Reserve and the Market ☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian  ~  Search the MLS for FREE ️Explore the shifting dynamics between the Federal Reserve's projections and the market's sentiment, uncovering uncertainties and potential scenarios. Will rate cuts prevail, or could the yield curve undergo unexpected shifts? Dive into the intricate landscape of interest rate forecasts.  To read the full article...  Click HERE. I specialize in the East Valley of the Phoenix Metro area - Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, Apache Junction, and Gold Canyon☀️For ALL of Your East Valley AZ Real Estate Needs📞Call or 🙋‍♂Text Brian at 480-773-2370📨Email Brian  ~  Search the MLS for FREE
Comments 8
Commission on Aging Presentation on Tuesday, March 19The Montgomery County Commission on Aging will host a presentation from 10-11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 19, at the White Oak Senior/Community Recreation Center that will have information on many questions important to seniors and to others who are concerned about seniors.White Oak Senior/Community Recreation Center is located at 1700 April Lane in Silver Spring. Parking will be available. Advance registration is not required to attend.Commission members will share insights on specific topics and will address concerns of residents. In addition to planned issues for discussion, questions on all types of subjects will be welcomed.For more information about the event, contact Beverly Rollins via email at GraftonWV@yahoo.com or by calling 301...
Comments 1
By Norma J. Elkins, Realtor - Elkins Home Selling Team
( Elite Realty Group)
You are the one in charge of your own schedule. If you want more family time, make it happen.  If you want more time to relax, make it happen.If you want to make sure you can go to church regularly, make it happen.If you want to go on more vacations this year, make it happen.If you want it bad enough, you will make it happen! Happy Monday and Stay in Balance!  The Elkins Home Selling Team with Elite Realty Group provides services with Morristown TN Real Estate For Sale and Morristown TN Homes For Sale to home buyers and home sellers in Morristown Tennessee, Whitesburg, Talbott, Russellville, Sevierville, Bean Station, Dandridge, Pigeon Forge and surrounding communities.We specialize in working with Home Sellers in getting their homes listed and sold. We utilize the latest and most up to...
Comments 4
By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Seller says, "It's a Steal" at This Price! When a new, cooler cycle emerges from the ashes of a completely lit past market, it takes time for home sellers to get on board with reality. Try as agents might, there’s no convincing all owners of current property value. Three reasons why listings sit on the market rather than quickly going under contract:💰 Sellers think the law of attraction will bring an unsupecting buyer, encouraging them to pay well above market price.🦄 They are convinced their upgraded home will ignite a bidding war, fueled by wealthy unicorn buyers from outside areas.🔥 Most take into consideration a Zestimate when plugging their hot property into the national web site to get ‘real’ value. These sellers quite often know more than experienced real estate professionals, pl...
Comments 9
By Dustin Pitts, Realtor serving Dallas, Texas
(Dustin Pitts, REALTOR® | Dallas Real Estate Agent)
Discover the pros and cons of living in Dallas, Texas, including a thriving job market, quality healthcare, a strong sense of community, high property taxes, urban sprawl, and prevalent bugs. Explore the diverse neighborhoods, the booming job market, and the citys transportation and infrastructure, and consider your personal preferences and priorities when evaluating Dallas as a potential place to call home.Overview of Living in Dallas, Texas Dallas, Texas, stands out as a city with a thriving job market, offering a plethora of opportunities across various industries such as technology, healthcare, and finance. For instance, major corporations like AT&T and American Airlines have their headquarters in Dallas, providing residents with diverse career paths. The presence of these industry ...
Comments 0
By Dave Jones, Broker/Owner - e-PRO Dave Jones Realty llc Prospec
(Dave Jones Realty, llc.)
The Benefits of Downsizing When You Retire In ConnecticutIf you’re taking a look at your expenses as you retire, saving money where you can has a lot of appeal. One long-standing, popular way to do that is by downsizing to a smaller home.When you think about cutting down on your spending, odds are you think of frequent purchases, like groceries and other goods. But when you downsize your house, you often end up downsizing the bills that come with it, like your mortgage payment, energy costs, and maintenance requirements. Realtor.com shares:“A smaller home typically means lower bills and less upkeep. Then there’s the potential windfall that comes from selling your larger home and buying something smaller.”That windfall is thanks to your home equity. If you’ve been in your house for a whi...
Comments 3
By Scott Godzyk, One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents
(Godzyk Real Estate Services)
Manchester NH Real Estate Market REPORT March 18, 2024.  Welcome back to our weekly post with what is going on in our Market. There is so many changes in our market and to Real Estate Over all and since last week. First lets briefly go over the NAR SETTLEMENT and what it really means for NH Sellers and Buyers. Here in NH it is already mandatory that a buyer signs a "Buyer Agency" agreement. (That will not change). What will change is that a buyer who does not have a buyer agent, will have to sign an agreement with an Agent to see a property they want to see before seeing it. Here in NH, a buyer already has to sign an "Agency Agreement" before seeing a home. The new forms are not even ready yet to be able to know fully, but the thought is the new form will have to state how the Buyer pay...
Comments 2