Real Estate Industry

“All the news that's fit to print,” or to click, as the case may be, can be found right here at your favorite real estate social networking site, ActiveRain. And here you thought it was merely a great place to chat with colleagues and slap up a blog post or two.


We know you're busy – whether it's trying to fill your pipeline or following up on what's already popped out of the bottom of it. Who has time to read? And, while real estate market news geared toward consumers is easy to round up on the Internet, news for brokers and Realtors is a bit harder to come by.


Your friends at ActiveRain understand how important each of those 168 hours in every week is so we've made it easy for you by consolidating everything you need to know to keep up-to-date with the real estate industry right here, in one place.


How are housing starts looking? Has the FHFA launched any new efforts? How's that Fannie and Freddie loan limit rollercoaster doing?


You've got the questions and your colleagues here at AR have the answers. It's at your fingertips – finally.

Recent blogs on Real Estate Industry
By Philip A. Raices, 1 of the Most Knowledgeable Brokers on the Net!
(Turn Key Real Estate)
For those who purchased their home recently or years ago repairs have to be addressed, but the cost of doing them has increased drastically, especially over the last few years.Not everyone has the money to be able to accomplish these things.  Trying to take on  tasks, like a leaky faucet, changing a lock, or electrical issues may be simple for some, but for others hiring a professional may be the only course one can pursue.Leaning how to do small tasks, however, may be as simple as just going on YouTube.com and searching for topics about exactly what has to be done.  There are a multitude of instructive videos that will walk you through the simplest repairs to those that require much more knowledge and skill to undertake to master the job.Most homeowners who are employed full-time do no...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), buildings consume 40% of the nation’s energy. And yet these same buildings lose as much as 30% of this energy through leaks in the ductwork and the exterior “building envelope.”Given this fact, you can imagine how a more sustainable building envelope design would increase energy efficiency dramatically. Here are some of the ways designers can pursue sustainable design.Understanding the Building EnvelopeThe “envelope” simply refers to the building’s exterior structure. It includes all of the materials and structures that form a barrier to the outside world, including walls, insulation, windows, and doors.The building envelope plays a vital role in controlling energy flow — the DOE estimates that a sustainable envelope design could save as...
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By Savvy Inspections & Enviro Pros, Commercial Inspections, Environmental Assessments
(1 Team )
Auto salvage workers show off their short work ingenuity on Facebook, while accidentally exposing their careless contamination. How many fuel tanks do they empty this way per week? As an inspection company, it's shocking to see how much fuel is being spilled onto the ground multiplied several times per week, which can contaminate the water table in that community.  Your thoughts?       
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
Are we headed for another crash?  That may be what you are feeling right now, but let me tell you why we are not!  If you remember the housing crash of 2008, you may be worried we are headed for that again, but let's take a look at inventory now and then and see what we can learn!#findahomeinelkgrove #allelkgrovehomes #eghomevalue #moderegroup #moderealestategroup #lorimode #realestatemadesimple #realestate #elkgroverealestate #investor #elkgrove #marketupdate #investing 
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By Eric Lawrence Frazier MBA, Founder and CEO of The Power Is Now Media, Inc.
(The Power Is Now Media, Inc. )
 🏡 Welcome to The Powers Now Real Estate Round Table! I'm Eric L. Frazier, and I'm thrilled to have the amazing Katherine Peoples-McGill with us today. Katherine Peoples is the founder of HPP Cares, a HUD-approved counseling agency and provider of the ADU program for the State of California. Stay tuned for a game-changing discussion!🔑 In this conversation part 3, we'll dive deep into the world of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and the incredible opportunities they offer for homeowners in California. Katherine Peoples shares insights into ADUs, grants, qualifications, and more. If you're a homeowner or looking to invest in real estate, you won't want to miss this!📣 For those eager to explore the world of ADUs, it's time to take action. Reach out to Katherine Peoples-McGill and her team ...
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By Eric Lawrence Frazier MBA, Founder and CEO of The Power Is Now Media, Inc.
(The Power Is Now Media, Inc. )
 🎉 Welcome to the Real Estate Round Table! Get ready for an eye-opening journey into the world of housing, property development, and securing grants for your very own ADU. Join us right here on YouTube!🏠 In this enlightening video part 2, we dive deep into the intricacies of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), guided by the remarkable Katherine Peoples-McGill. She shares insights on ADUs, how to secure grants for them, and the incredible impact they can have on your financial future.📢 Don't miss out on this game-changing opportunity! Leave your thoughts and questions in the comments below. Share this video with your friends and family who might benefit, and don't forget to hit that subscribe button to stay informed about more real estate insights!🌐 Website: www.hppcares.org📞Contact Katheri...
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By Eric Lawrence Frazier MBA, Founder and CEO of The Power Is Now Media, Inc.
(The Power Is Now Media, Inc. )
 🏡 Welcome to "The Power Is Now Real Estate Round Table." I'm your host, Eric L. Frazier. Today, we have a special guest, Katherine Peoples McGill, the founder of HPP Cares, a HUD-approved housing counseling agency. We'll discuss how HPP Cares assists homebuyers, homeowners in need, and those interested in accessory dwelling units (ADUs).🌆 Katherine Peoples brings over a decade of nonprofit experience to HPP Cares, where they offer various programs, including homebuyer education, foreclosure prevention, credit improvement, and ADU support. We'll focus on ADUs today, addressing California's housing crisis and how ADUs can help.🌐 Website: www.hppcares.org📞Contact Katherine Peoples: 562-281-8861 | info@hppcares.org🌐 The Power Is Now Media: www.thepowerisnow.com📞 Contact Eric L. Frazier, MB...
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By Ron Cedillo, Helping People and Enjoying Life
(Home Buyers Realty)
With mortgage rates hovering in the 7% range, being able to snag yourself a mortgage with a much lower interest rate probably sounds very appealing. This is why a new company called Roam has been all over the news recently, after recently launching a platform to help home buyers find mortgages they can assume for as low as 2%.You’re probably thinking that sounds a little too good to be true, but certainly worth looking into if it’s even remotely possible. And you’d be right on both accounts.Assumable mortgages aren’t a new thing; they’re no more available now than they were last week, last month, or last year. Roam is just trying to make it easier to find houses that are for sale and the owner has an assumable mortgage at an interest rate that’s lower than current market rates.As you ca...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
I guess the '80s are back in style!  I am not sure they ever went out of style because I think that styles are one of those things that are very, very subjective. What does your ideal home look like?Where would your ideal home be located?  How many bedrooms, how many bathrooms?Are you living the the present in terms of what you need today?  or are you planning for the future?  The facts are that real estate is a great investment but it is not very liquid.  meaning that you need to hold on to it for a period before it becomes financially attractive.  Live in the present but plan for the future.  #thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #homeowner #realestate #realestateagent #realtor #happyhomeowners #happyhome
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By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
California is grappling with a severe housing crisis. One of the major impediments to alleviating this crisis is the tangled web of bureaucracy and regulations known as red tape, stifling the construction of new housing. We will explore the complexities of the housing approval process in California, highlighting the barriers faced by developers, the impact on housing availability, and potential solutions to this pressing issue.The term “red tape” refers to the intricate bureaucratic procedures and regulations that developers must navigate to gain approval for new housing projects in California. These regulations encompass zoning laws, building codes, environmental reviews, and community approval processes.Further, California’s zoning laws can be particularly restrictive, dictating the t...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
Are you confused about the real estate market right now?Don’t be. We will help you make the right decision for you!#buyingahome #firsttimehomebuyer #homefinancing #sacramentorealestate #realestateadvice #realestate #newhome #homeownership
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Selling "as is" doesn't mean neglecting your property; it means being transparent about its condition and pricing accordingly. As a Realtor, I've seen how this approach can be a smart choice for certain situations.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP When you sell your home, many buyers will try to negotiate based on the property’s condition; for example, if they find out that the roof needs to be replaced during the home inspection, they could ask you to get the roof repaired before they move in, or knock the cost off of the home price. But just because your home needs work doesn’t mean you have to negotiate with buyers on price or repairs; instead, you can sell your home in its current condition, no negotiations — also known as selling “as is.” If you’re going to sell...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
Owning property in Spain, whether as a primary residence or vacation getaway, can be a dream come true for many. Yet, for most, understanding the intricacies of mortgage calculations can seem daunting, especially when navigating a foreign financial system.In this guide, we’ll demystify the process of using a Spanish Mortgage Calculator and provide clear steps for those wishing to get a grip on their potential financial commitments in Spain.Understanding the Basics of Spanish MortgagesBefore diving into any calculator tool, it's crucial to have a basic grasp of Spanish mortgages. Spain has its set of rules, interest rates, and conditions that differ from other countries. Most Spanish mortgages are variable rates, with the Euribor (a European interest rate benchmark) commonly used as a re...
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By Ron Cedillo, Helping People and Enjoying Life
(Home Buyers Realty)
When you sell your home, many buyers will try to negotiate based on the property’s condition; for example, if they find out that the roof needs to be replaced during the home inspection, they could ask you to get the roof repaired before they move in, or knock the cost off of the home price.But just because your home needs work doesn’t mean you have to negotiate with buyers on price or repairs; instead, you can sell your home in its current condition, no negotiations — also known as selling “as is.”If you’re going to sell your home “as is” there are certain things you’ll want to consider. A recent article from realtor.com outlined tips for selling a home “as is,” including: Make it clear in the description. Not all buyers are going to be interested in an “as is” property. So, if you wan...
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By Daniela Pellicciotti, The Miami condo specialist
(Condoideas Realty Group)
The luxury real estate market is navigating a complex and evolving landscape, where both buyers and sellers must adapt to the changing dynamics, including pricing strategies, tax implications, and interest rate considerations. One example of this shifting landscape is Joan Dangerfield, the wife of the late comedian Rodney Dangerfield, who is struggling to sell her Los Angeles home. The $17.8 million property, which boasts stunning views and amenities, has lingered on the market since February, despite receiving offers. However, these offers come with complicated contingencies, such as requiring the seller to provide financing, reflecting a hesitancy among buyers in the luxury market. Data reveals that luxury home sales nationwide, defined as the top 5% of homes by market value, declined...
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By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
Pasadena, California is a city adorned with a rich history and culture of architectural marvels. I was lucky enough to be born and raised in the Pasadena area and have had the honor of selling some of these timeless homes. My wife and I went through an extensive renovation project of our own to a 1923 Spanish bungalow in Pasadena and were able to maintain the heart and soul of the home which included a batchelder fireplace, arched hallways, french windows and tons of other period details. At the same time we were able to add several modern amenities and completed the home with mission style furniture to complete the project. Below is a list of some of Pasadena's most iconic homes and architects. I would invite you to experience the wide array of historical homes and the city's evolution...
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By John Pusa, Your All Time Realtor With Exceptional Service
(Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Crest)
On September 19, 2023, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide housing building permits increased 6.9% to 1,543,000 units in August of 2023 from 1,443,000 units in July of 2023, but down 2.7% from 1,586,000 in August of 2022. Single family building permits gained 2.0% to a rate of 949,000 units in August of 2023, from 930,000 units in July of 2023, and there were 535,000 multifamily building permits issued in August of 2023.Nationwide housing starts decreased 11.3% to 1,283,000 units in August of 2023, from 1,447,000 units in July of 2023 and fell 14.8% from 1,505,000 units in August of 2022. Single family starts dropped 4.3% to a rate of 941,000 units in August of 2022 from 983,000 in July of 2022, and there were 334,000 multi...
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By Dan Rochon, Top Realtor in Northern Virginia
(Greetings Virginia with eXp Realty)
UNVEILING THE NATURAL GEM: EXPLORING NORTHERN VIRGINIA'S BLUE RIDGE PARKWAYHello everyone, and welcome back to Greetings, Virginia! Today, we're about to embark on a journey that promises breathtaking views, outdoor adventures, and a tranquil escape from the urban hustle and bustle. Buckle up as we dive into the hidden treasure of the Blue Ridge Parkway, right here in the heart of Northern Virginia. A Scenic Drive Like No OtherImagine a road trip that winds through 469 miles of sheer natural beauty, showcasing the wonders of the Appalachian Highlands. Welcome to the Blue Ridge Parkway, often called "America's favorite drive." And guess what? It's not a distant dream; it's at our doorstep in Northern Virginia.Nature's PlaygroundLiving in Northern Virginia has its perks, and having the Bl...
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By Ron Cedillo, Helping People and Enjoying Life
(Home Buyers Realty)
Considering buying a vacation home as a rental? It’s a different process from buying a primary home, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be easy to make a few (potentially expensive!) mistakes along the way.So what, exactly, are those mistakes, and more importantly, how do you avoid them?A recent article from realtor.com outlined common mistakes buyers make when purchasing a vacation home as a way to earn income, including: Not checking local rental regulations. Not all areas allow short-term or vacation rentals. If you’re buying a property with the intention to rent it out as a vacation home, it’s important to understand local rental regulations and how they impact your ability to make an income from your vacation home. If you’re not sure about local regulations, ask your r...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098
(PMI. Destin)
Exploring mortgage terminology:I wish it were all that simple.  At one point in time, cash was king and it meant that the probability of a quick closing was very high. Times change and this may or may not be reality these days.  "Cash Offer."Some buyers/investors made cash offers without the intent of actually purchasing a property with that cash.  With free money on the table, ie loan rates below 3% it made more sense to make a cash offer, then switch to a financed purchase.  There are many things that change at this point in time to include you probably do not have valid offer at this point in time.  You need to update the contract with the new financing arrangement  and get both buyers and sellers to agree.  Just another something to be aware of. Cash may not be King.  It's all about...
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