First Blog Posts

Sometimes, it can be scary to write your first blog post! Luckily, the supportive community of ActiveRain is just the place to start.

On this page you will find a running list of “first blog posts” written on ActiveRain by members of the real estate industry. These new bloggers have taken the leap to begin their blogging journey. Our first-time real estate bloggers deserve a big welcome and some extra encouragement from you!

Take a read, leave a comment, and say hello. You'll make that author’s day and help to give them a great first impression of our community.

Agent's first blog posts on ActiveRain

By Leanne Finlay, Piper Finlay Real Estate serves Island/King/SnoCo
(Piper Finlay Real Estate)
I have a seller client who will be buying in North Baltimore county.  They need a 2 - 3 bedroom house, in good shape (no fixer) with 2 baths.  $425,000 max.  The areas they want to look at are Parkville, Timonium, and Randallstown.  They will be visiting from Washington State in September to look.Please email me at leannefinlay@piperfinlay.com and let's talk.Thanks!Leanne FinlayPiper Finlay Real Estate
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By Tariq Thomas, Real Estate Agent, Developer & Problem Solver
(THG of MD LLC)
Understanding the differences between tenant and squatter rights in Maryland is crucial for both property owners and renters. This knowledge can help protect your property, ensure you comply with state laws, and avoid potential legal issues.Understanding Tenant Rights in MarylandA tenant is someone who has a lease agreement to occupy a rental property. In Maryland, tenants have specific rights and responsibilities under the law. These rights are designed to protect tenants from unfair practices and ensure they have a safe place to live.Rights and Responsibilities of Tenants in Maryland: Lease Agreements: A lease is a binding contract between the tenant and landlord. It outlines the terms of the tenancy, including the duration, rent amount, and maintenance responsibilities. Learn more ab...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Have you ever walked through a neighborhood and just been instantly captivated by a beautifully designed modern home? The clean lines, elegant materials, and thoughtful landscaping create a striking first impression. It's this kind of curb appeal that many homeowners dream of achieving. The exterior of your home is not just the first thing people see; it's a reflection of your style and attention to detail. This article will guide you through practical and modern design tips to help you create a stunning exterior that makes your home stand out. Embrace MinimalismMinimalism is more than a trend; it's a lifestyle choice that brings clarity and calm to any space. In exterior design, minimalism focuses on simplicity and functionality. Clean lines, neutral colors, and an uncluttered look def...
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By Nelson Huggins, Rooter Man to the Rescue
(Rooter Man )
Buying a home is a big expense and a sometimes a financial stretch. Taking the time to have the sewer line scoped before signing a contract can be crucial. Take a look at these three reasons a buyer should have a licensed plumber camera the sewer line.1. Identify Potential Problems: Sounds obvious. A home inspector may only test the drains for a minute or two. All he can tell you is that the drain is draining. The sewer system is a critical part of the home. It removes waste and water from the home. Over time pipes break down, leak and clog. These problems can be simple or complex. These problems will not go away on their own. Identifying problems before you buy can save you thousands, if you know the issues during a price negotiation.2. Avoid Costly Repairs: Having a clear understandin...
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By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
Junk Removal can be hard work. Although it sounds like a good DIY project, there are several benefits to hiring a professional junk removal service to get the job done.1. TrainingThat's right, knowing how to handle large, heavy items, take them apart and remove them safely without causing damage to your home and property is important. Professional training ensures that your junk or waste is handled properly and disposed of correctly.2. SafetyMost unwanted items like appliances and old monitors, paint cans, and tires are considered hazardous waste. Knowing how to load, transport and properly dispose of these items is important. 3. Time and Cost Time saved sorting, loading, transporting add up along with disposal fees. The cost of hiring a junk removal professional can out weigh the unkno...
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By Jes Coles, Suburban Homestead Seeker
(Stanberry Realtors®)
Listing Details of 405 Fordtrand St in Ellinger TexasModern Comfort Meets Country Living405 Fordtrand St. Ellinger, TX 78938Price: $325,500MLS# 6219077Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2.5Square Footage: 1856Call Jes Coles at 360-941-0285 to arrange a showing. Location of 405 Fordtrand St.Ellinger is the newest incorporated community in Texas. Centrally located about half way between Austin and Houston on Hwy 71, only about 1.25 hr travel in either direction. Shopping (H-E-B) and dining are only a short and scenic ~15 minutes away in La Grange or Columbus. For the lovers of Antiques - Round Top is 25min up the road. You have to check out their semi-annual Round Top Antiques Fair! Hunters and fishing enthusiast will enjoy the array of options a short trek from your doorstep; including Oak Creek Ranc...
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It's undeniable that buying a home has become more challenging, especially given today's mortgage rates and the rise in home prices. This has spurred many prospective buyers to explore grants and assistance programs to see if they qualify for any support. However, navigating these options can be daunting for some, as highlighted in a recent study by the Bank of America Institute. According to the study, a significant number of prospective buyers expressed a lack of confidence and a need for more information, particularly in understanding homebuying grant programs. Specifically, 53% of respondents indicated they require assistance in comprehending homebuying grant programs.To bridge this knowledge gap, here's some essential information: What Exactly is Down Payment Assistance?According t...
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📌 Join Eric L. Frazier, MBA president and CEO of The Power Is Now Media and Brandy Nelson for an enriching discussion with special guest Darren Blomquist, VIP of Market Economics at Auction.com. Gain valuable insights into the current state of the real estate market as Darren Blomquist provides expert analysis backed by extensive data. From Federal Reserve policies to home price dynamics, this episode offers a comprehensive understanding of market trends. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or industry professional, this conversation is a must-watch to navigate today's real estate landscape effectively.📣 Tune in now and don't forget to leave a comment sharing your thoughts on the discussion. Share this video with your friends and colleagues to keep them informed about the latest real estate...
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By Tina Schildt, Your Home Sold Guaranteed or We Will Buy It
(TMS Property Management and Realty - Your Home Sold Guaranteed or We'll Buy It!)
  AMAZING POOL HOME in the Forest Brook area! 😍 Dive into Your Dream Pool Home in Forest Brook for Only $449,999! Buy this home, we'll buy yours!* CALL OR TEXT me now at (843) 438-6322 to request a private tour!This stunning pool home offers:✅ Private, wooded backyard retreat✅ Luxurious master suite with balcony overlooking the pool️✅ Just 10 minutes to the beach and so much more!♥ Buy A Home With Us and If You Are Not Satisfied in 18 Months, We'll Sell It For Free*✨Your Home Sold Guaranteed or We'll Buy It!*Thinking of selling your home? CALL or TEXT TINA TODAY!! (843) 438-6322 👉 or click this linkhttps://yourhomesoldguaranteedrealty-tmsrealestate.com/want-to-sell-a-home-in-myrtle-beach-for-a-guaranteed-price
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By Dream Home Mortgage, Texas Mortgage Consultant, 25+ Years Experience
(Dream Home Mortgage)
Are you dreaming of owning your own home but unsure where to start?Whether you're a first-time home buyer, have a low FICO score, are self-employed, or are considering a VA loan, our upcoming webinar is designed just for you. Join us at Dream Home Mortgage for our free webinar, "Get Your Dream Home: A Guide to Home Buying and Mortgage," where we'll cover all the essential topics to help you navigate the home-buying process with confidence.First-Time Home Buyers: Your Path to OwnershipFor first-time home buyers, the journey to homeownership can be both exciting and overwhelming. Our webinar will break down the steps to make your dream of owning a home a reality. We'll discuss: Understanding the Home Buying Process: From pre-approval to closing, we'll guide you through each step. Saving f...
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As a full-time mom, full-time employee and full-time student; it is difficult to cope with the everyday life challenges. I currently work as a healthcare recruiter from home while taking care of our toddler. It is very challenging doing so, and it took me over a year to get the hang of it and set a plan to make this work. The key to my success was creating a good organizational system. Having something in place helps you follow a routine and it makes it easier for you to remember steps at doing anything. For example, I know my toddler wakes up, I get her ready for the day, make her breakfast, plays for a period of time, learns for a few minutes, we go for a small walk before she gets too cranky, and all of these activities make her tired and ready for a nap. When talking about good reco...
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In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate, where dreams are built and futures are shaped, lies a shadowy realm that often blurs the lines between reality and illusion. False advertising in real estate is not a new phenomenon, yet its repercussions continue to reverberate through the industry, leaving buyers and sellers alike disillusioned and disheartened.At its core, false advertising in real estate encompasses a spectrum of deceptive practices, ranging from exaggerated property descriptions to manipulated photographs that paint an unrealistically rosy picture. While the allure of a perfect home or investment opportunity is undeniably enticing, the repercussions of falling prey to false advertising can be financially and emotionally devastating.One of the most common manifestations...
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By Elyon DeClan, The Capital Solutions Guy
(Goldsmith & Freudenthal)
Insider's Hack and Business Credibility #1 : Make Sure Your Business Meets Lending Criteria Before You ApplyYour Business Name When choosing a name, try to choose one that is as basic and generic as possible and doesn’t peg you into one industry. Many industries fall into restricted lists. Believe it or not, about 50% of the chosen business names can inadvertently cause a flag in the credit computers' algorithms. General consulting-type names work best, as nobody will deny you then. Any other industry-specific name might restrict your ability to get money with some lending sources and credit issuers. Your Business AddressWhen applying for business credit, please make sure you provide an actual physical address. You cannot use a PO Box or UPS address. We'd like to suggest that you don't ...
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By David Liberatore, GRI, CLHMS, SRS, AHWD, ABR®
(Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Atchley Properties)
Hiring a Contractor Checklist and TipsChecklist compiled the top 10 tips to consider when selecting a contractor for your home renovation project. From getting multiple estimates to checking the contractor's insurance and bonding, it's crucial to do your due diligence before making a decision. Taking your time, getting everything in writing, and understanding your right to cancel are key steps in ensuring a successful renovation process. Anticipating delays and keeping a thorough job file can also help you navigate any challenges that may arise. Follow these tips to hire a contractor that meets your needs and delivers quality work for your home improvement project.Key Takeaways: Get Multiple Estimates: Compare at least three written estimates from different contractors to ensure you're ...
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By Peter Fife, Realtor in Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley
(Peter Fife with Coldwell Banker Northland)
Navigating the landscape of home financing can often feel like trekking through a dense forest, full of unknowns and possibilities. Especially in a scenic locale like Prescott, Arizona, where the allure of owning a home is as captivating as the city's natural beauty. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or looking to expand your investment portfolio, understanding the myriad of financing options available to you is crucial. This comprehensive guide aims to illuminate the path to securing the right financing for your dream home in Prescott, ensuring your journey is as smooth and informed as possible.A Spectrum of Financing OptionsThe world of real estate financing is vast and varied, offering a palette of options to suit different needs and circumstances. Let's look at the most prominen...
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By Spencer Rivers, Specialist in marketing Calgary luxury homes
(Synterra Realty)
Calgary Real Estate Market April 2024 Update: Key Insights for Home Buyers and Sellers [Comprehensive Guide]The Calgary real estate market for April 2024 is a critical focal point for home buyers and sellers alike. Staying informed about the latest trends, statistics, and insights in Calgary's real estate landscape is paramount for making informed decisions. As a home buyer or seller, understanding the current market conditions can significantly impact your real estate journey.In this update, we delve into the key trends and statistics shaping the Calgary real estate market in April 2024. A deep dive into the market data can provide valuable insights for those looking to buy or sell properties in Calgary. By staying abreast of the market dynamics, you can position yourself strategically...
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By Danny Stewart, PR Rep for Pillar To Post in the US
(Pillar To Post)
Pillar To Post, the largest home inspection company in North America, has announced a complete brand refresh that is intended to provide new and existing franchise business owners with a more enticing and profitable franchise opportunity than ever before. The systemwide revamp is also intended to keep Pillar To Post on track with its anticipated growth goals.To expand its network of franchise business owners, Pillar To Post is actively seeking individuals interested in building multi-inspector teams. While home inspection or real estate experience is welcomed, it is considered optional. The brand aims to accelerate its growth in both new and established markets through streamlined training approaches, technological advancements, and the proven support of a traditional franchise system. ...
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By Kukun--240-483-3649 Franklin Carroll, Elite client engagement tools and proptech
(Kukun, Inc.)
While all realtors recognize the importance of generating leads and dedicate significant time to it, far fewer invest substantial efforts into customer retention. Consequently, despite achieving high levels of customer satisfaction, many struggle to secure repeat business. Research conducted by Remax indicates that although approximately 90% of clients were happy with their realtors and expressed willingness to do business with them again, a mere 17% actually did. While some of this discrepancy may be attributed to clients no longer residing in that local market, after all many people selling a home do so because they are moving far away, those who used a realtor to buy a home could be expected to return when selling later down the road. Assuming that roughly half of the polled individu...
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By Dustin Pitts, Realtor serving Dallas, Texas
(Dustin Pitts, REALTOR® | Dallas Real Estate Agent)
Overview of Disney Streets Dallas Homes for SaleThe history of the Disney Streets neighborhood in Dallas traces back to the mid-1950s when the area was developed with a whimsical touch by naming streets after beloved Disney characters like Cinderella Lane and Snow White Drive. These unique street names add to the neighborhood's charm and appeal, creating a distinct identity for the community. Furthermore, the original homes in Disney Streets date back to the 1960s, showcasing a rich architectural heritage that contributes to the area's character and allure. For instance, the ranch-style homes built during this era reflect the postwar housing trends prevalent at the time, offering a glimpse into the neighborhood's evolution over the years.Moreover, the emphasis on maintaining quality and...
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By Your Building Team, Home Builder
(Your Building Team)
Construction enthusiasts and DIY builders often find themselves seeking new and more efficient ways to build. The realm of construction is vast, comprising various building structures, each with its unique characteristics. One structural framework that has particularly stood out in recent years is the rigid frame building. Rigid frame buildings have carved a niche for themselves in the construction industry due to their remarkable durability and versatility. Suitable for a variety of applications, these buildings can withstand a range of pressures and conditions, making them an increasingly popular choice for today's construction projects. Exploring the Features of Rigid Frame BuildingsSo what exactly is a rigid frame building, and what makes it unique? As opposed to traditional constru...
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