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ActiveRain Community

Being part of the largest real estate related social network has its perks; the community of ActiveRain is on top of that list. Our vast array of real estate professionals have been in the business since the beginning. Not only do they know best practices when it comes to real estate, social media, personal life and beyond but they share their insight so freely with one another. Our mantra of Connect, Share, Learn is taken to another level because of the valuable members of ActiveRain.


Here you will find all sorts of information about what makes ActiveRain members tick. We are spread far and wide and come from all walks of life together to build this one-of-a-kind platform. Anything to do with the community and happenings in the 'Rain can be found here. Dive in and take part of something uniquely special.

Recent blogs on ActiveRain Community
By SCOTT FREERKSEN, Changing lives, one lake house at a time...
(Lakefront Living Realty, LLC)
Pontoon boats were meant to go slow. The after dinner cruise with the family is the epitome of living the "Lake Life". However many owners want more. How do I upgrade my pontoon boat to go faster? Better yet, how do I upgrade my pontoon boat to go faster without spending any money? Believe it or not there are some simple and effective ways to boost your pontoon tow power. Adding a few horsepower can make the difference when towing a tuber or water skier. It may also be just enough to get the jump on your neighbor during that unsanctioned race you may spontaneously have... Free Power upgrades Trim your motor. a simple yet effective way to decrease drag on your boat. When you use the trim, it will tilt your boat engine to a higher angle. It does this with a little hydraulic motor which wi...
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By SCOTT FREERKSEN, Changing lives, one lake house at a time...
(Lakefront Living Realty, LLC)
Owning a lake home has numerous advantages. You'll have picturesque views and plenty of water activities to keep you entertained. But did you know that lakes are also essential for providing freshwater to both humans and wildlife? Have you noticed that some lakes purposely lower their water level during winter through a process known as "drawdown"? Don't worry, it's not a prank! This practice actually helps maintain the health and sustainability of the lake and its surrounding environment. So, let's dive into some reasons why some lakes drawdown, and the pros and cons it brings. Lake Drawdown Advantages The main benefit of a water level draw down is to kill invasive aquatic plants that grow in shallow water. Ice damage prevention Shoreline access for repairing retaining walls, docks, an...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Luxury Living
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
"There is no such thing as too much truth"Bob WoodwardRenowned journalist Bob Woodward once proclaimed, "There’s no such thing as too much truth."  His quote invites us to reconsider our relationship with truth.Our continuing search for truth, takes us on a path that is not always straightforward.  We are currently living in a world that is inundated with misinformation and propaganda.  We keep hearing about fake news.  Who are we to trust?  Journalists should bear a solemn responsibility to uphold the highest standards of journalistic ethics and integrity.  It once was that way.  Now, we are constantly dealing with an onslaught of misinformation.  Truth is not a mere concept; it is the cornerstone upon which our understanding of the world is built.  Without truth, society turns into ch...
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By Seesan Ed, Trust Delivery Agent / Mobile Notary/ Apostille
(206 715 1642)
In today's globalized world, international transactions and document authentication have become increasingly common. For those navigating the authentication process in Delaware, Mobile Notary And Apostille Courier Service offers a streamlined solution. SEESAN, the expert behind the service, ensures that your documents are authenticated swiftly and accurately, from birth certificates to legal contracts, catering to various document types. Whether you're located in the US or overseas, entrusting SEESAN with your authentication needs can eliminate the hassle of navigating bureaucratic procedures and allow you to focus on your priorities. With the Apostille Courier Service in Delaware, rest assured that your documents are in capable hands. This will allow you to expedite your international ...
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By Jim Crawford, Jim Crawford Broker Associate Fredericksburg VA
(Long & Foster)
The 1980s Here AgainThe one thing that is great about longevity in real estate is that you gain insights from previous markets and sales that you engaged in along life’s journey.  At least, that is the perspective I take.  In the later 1970s in post-Vietnam economy as a country went nowhere sideways.  It was called “Stagflation!”   Inflation and higher unemployment took a toll on the nation.  Then came the fix, and it was a double whammy.  In December of 1980 mortgage rates for a 30-year fixed conventional mortgage were at 9.5%.  However, by June of 1981, they were at 15.5% and rising.  A 70K mortgage on a 100K home was about $1500 a month.   That is pretty high when you consider that the average annual salary in 1980 in the U.S.A. was about $12,500.   The average price of a home in the...
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By Joyce Marsh, Joyce Marsh Luxury Living
(Joyce Marsh Real Estate LLC)
Rediscovering the Lost Art of a Handwritten Letter I recently received a beautifully handwritten letter from one of my favorite authors, Alexandra Stoddard. I have a collection of her many books, and I have enjoyed her writings for many years.  I wrote her a handwritten letter along with a small gift for her 80th birthday.  She thanked me with a lovely handwritten letter, while apologizing that it took her so long to thank me personally, but it was a joy to receive this letter that was handwritten with care and a heartfelt message. In today's digital world, where instant messaging and emails dominate our communication landscape, the art of handwritten letters seems to have faded into obscurity.  There's a certain magic in receiving a handwritten letter. The anticipation as you carefully...
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By Valerie Almanzar, MBA
(Your Casa Team - Keller Williams Realty)
10612 Stanley Drive Northwest Welcome to this stunning two-story home located in a prime area of Albuquerque, surrounded by a plethora of convenient amenities. This beautiful home is situated in close proximity to shopping centers, a variety of dining options, reputable schools, and top-notch medical facilities. Additionally, it boasts easy access to picturesque parks and scenic walking trails, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Upon stepping inside, you'll be greeted by a range of impressive updates, including modern countertops, stylish sinks, elegant cabinetry, and attractive flooring throughout. The abundance of natural light further enhances the inviting atmosphere of the home, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. One of the standout features of this property is the spacious bac...
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By Mark Don McInnes, Sandpoint-Idaho, North Idaho Real Estate - 208-255.6227
(Sandpoint Realty LLC)
Sandpoint Realty 'Friday Flag' was found on a past listing, and sold, property for Sandpoint Realty.With winter hanging on, even with 'Phil's' predicting an early spring, I thought this photo of a past North Idaho listing would help brighten the spirits a bit.  While keeping a meticulous yard, and home, this owner also proudly flew the USA Flag for all to enjoy.  By now you all know how much I enjoy going to a listing appointment, or home viewing, and seeing 'Ole Glory' flying.   Mark Don McInnesBroker - Owner208 255-6227SandpointNorthIdaho.com - North Idaho Home & Land Searches Sandpoint Realty LLC1205 Highway 2Sandpoint, Idaho 83864
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By Victoria Craig, Keeping the "Real" in Real Estate!
(Century 21 Select)
I’m one of many that often have long days that keep us busy with what’s unfolding in front of us. But by the end of the day, we may feel anxious and stressed.As quoted in a recent article, once our days end, we have fewer distractions from our anxiety, said Erica Basso, a psychotherapist and owner of a group practice in California. We may be worrying more about the things that make us anxious simply because we have the time to do so. On top of that, there are some things we may be doing in the evening that can cause our racing thoughts to snowball — leading to anxiety keeping us awake and disturbing our sleep.The author asked therapists to share the most common nighttime habits that could worsen our anxiety. Here’s what they said to avoid in order to relax and rest:Doomscrolling.Doomscr...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Discover prime office space available for lease in Worthington! Tailored to suit your needs, whether you prefer an individual office or half of a floor. Conveniently situated on the bus line just south of Downtown Worthington, with additional off-street parking options. Interested? Send us a message or give us a call:☎ 614 - 431 - 1220 | 📧 rjoe@kw.com Click the LINK to know more about the property:    
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Don't miss out on this amazing residential property nestled in the renowned Waterford Village subdivision, promises the ideal blend of space and convenience and is located in the coveted Dublin school district!   Stay tuned for more details!  Interested? Contact us Now!☎ +1 614-431-1770 | 📩 erikhiss@gmail.com  
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
THANK YOU ALL for Participating! February's Dream Board Challenge We received 28 distinctly different and unique entries from ActiveRain members who participated by creating a dream/vision board. This was a fun activity to uncover hidden desires and aspirations that now await discovery!  Kathy Streib and I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to you all for being a part of this challenge! We might follow-up next year to re-visit and see how everyone fared in their list! Points will be given out within a week. We are now MARCHing on! February Challenge | Dream Boards: What’s On Your Wish List?
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We hope to see you on one of the ActiveRain Tuesday Zoom calls!   Did you know ActiveRain has a Zoom call every Tuesday at 2pm EST, 11am PST, 12pm MST and we’ve been doing it every week for the last four years?   Were you aware that we invite speakers each week to fill us in on many different topics? If not, it’s all true!   Here are just a few of the topics we’ve covered in the last year: State of Mortgages - 2023 Creating Longevity in Real Estate Saratoga Springs NY Architectural History NAR Update Real Estate Appraisals: Fact, Fiction & Future What Effect Does AI have on Real Estate Stories of a Mobile Notary Working With Hoarders Feng Shui Community Facebook Pages Tech Smorgasbord Knowing When or if to retire from Real Estate So how does this relate to this month’s challenge?   Simp...
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By Carol Williams, Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA
(Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals.)
"Sometimes you deserve a second chance, not because you weren't fabulous the first time but because the timing and circumstances weren't quite right. You just got overlooked."   -Carol Williams  Giving deserving posts more exposure is what Second Chance Saturday is all about.  If you see a deserving post that didn't get Featured, be sure to tag me in the comment section of any post and watch for it in the next edition of Second Chance Saturday.   Change Comes In Being Proactive By: Lou Ludwig "As I see it..." Tell Your Story Using Stills, Video Editing, and AI By: John Henry, Florida Architect "A few months ago a dear friend found letters from her father to her mother in boxes left in storage for years."  1930 Kalispell Ordinances: Annual Salaries By: Kat Palmiotti "So I wondered how t...
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By Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker in DC, MD, VA and attorney in DC
(Keller Williams Capital Properties)
I just read an article by Prospects Plus about the pros and cons of closing gifts.  As they pointed out, the real estate industry is one of the few (or only?) industries that give closing gifts.  It made me wonder who does give closing gifts here in the rain and what your "success" rate is.  >Here are some of the pros and cons of giving closing gifts as seen by Prospects Plus. Pros According to the IRS agents can deduct up to $25 for each person they gift during the year. That doesn't buy much of a gift - and at that level, it sounds like it will only buy you something that ends up in the junk drawer.  We all probably know that you should put your branding on the closing gift.  With your branding on it, you’ll be able to deduct it as a marketing expense and possibly get a larger deducti...
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By Ralph Magin, Miami Homes For Sale
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
SUNNY ISLES MIAMI DADE FLORIDA REAL ESTATE BIGGEST SALES* As of March 1, 2024WE HAVE THE KEY TO YOUR DREAM HOME. CHECK OUT REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN SUNNY ISLES. Call now for real estate inquiries! 305-741-2142 or visit www.ralphmagin.com #RealEstateMiami #SouthFloridaRealEstate #RealEstateSunnyIsles #SunnyIslesRealEstate #SunnyIslesEstate  #RealEstateSouthFlorida #MiamiRealEstate #RealEstate #Realtor #houseexpert #househunting #home #RealEstateAgent #RealEstateBroker #RealEstateExpert #RealEstateForSale #Realty #Broker #HomeForSale #HouseForSale #PropertyForSale #HomeForSaleMiami #HomeForSaleSouthFlorida  Why You Want an Agent’s Advice for Your Move in Miami-Dade FloridaNo matter how you slice it, buying or selling a home is a big decision. And when you’re going through any ch...
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By Mimi Foster, Voted Colorado Springs Best Realtor
(Falcon Property Company)
FINDING BALANCEGrowing up in a strict, religious home, thinking about wishing for things or manifesting what we wanted was the vilest of endeavors. "If it was the Lord's will, He would give it to us." It took me a half dozen decades to not feel guilty for freely asking and imagining my blessings. When I am blessed, others are richly blessed. I don't believe the "name it and claim it" philosophy, but when we envision our dreams, we are more likely to work toward those goals. My mother would be concerned for my immortal soul when I'd get excited when we were prospering. I spent years trying to explain that I couldn't help anyone if I didn't have money with which to bless them. There's a balance I'm obviously still working on - prayer, attraction, positive energy, living in kindness but ma...
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By Mark Don McInnes, Sandpoint-Idaho, North Idaho Real Estate - 208-255.6227
(Sandpoint Realty LLC)
Sandpoint Realty 'Thursday Thought' gives hope to desperate, or unsure times.  The Real Estate landscape is facing some very tumultuous times presently.  'Acting' rather than 'Reacting' will be critical to success, and possibly even survival.    Mark Don McInnesBroker - Owner208 255-6227SandpointNorthIdaho.com - North Idaho Home & Land Searches Sandpoint Realty LLC1205 Highway 2Sandpoint, Idaho 83864
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
When you can't find that perfect home! Build it! 6 Saddlebrook Lane Lot# 10 is available!   "Build Your Dream Home in the Luxurious Bridle Ridge Community How long have you been looking for your dream home? Why not consider building it instead? You can do that in the luxurious Bridle Ridge community in Stevenson, Maryland.6  Saddlebrook Lane lot 10 is available!  This gated community offers privacy, security, and a perfect blank slate to bring your dream home to life.Pass the horses and entrance of The Odyessy School to view custom-built homes that exude luxury and prestige. You'll have great neighbors who share your enthusiasm for maintaining their properties. The Bridle Ridge Community offers plenty of room to construct your personalized home that perfectly matches your style and pref...
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Posts Just For You- This Week at ActiveRain February 25 to March 2, 2024  Every day there is something to learn here at ActiveRain.  With this series, I highlight posts that gave me that lightbulb moment. It could be something techie, a post about Real Estate or other professions, about a place, or a person. Or, it could be a post that made me sit up and take notice! February 25:  Jeff Masich    2024 DreamingDreams don’t have to be lofty or extreme. I found Jeff’s 2024 dreams for simplicity refreshing.  Lise Howe My Vision Board 2024 -for Kathy Streib(and Wanda too) Her focus is on family in all that she does!!! Joan Cox What Does 2024 Have in Store?Good to see Joan back. And her post is a reminder to us not to wait to do what we want to do, especially travel.  February 27: Kat Palmiott...
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