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

By Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®, Giving Back With Each Home Sold!
(RE/MAX Platinum)
Waukesha County 4 Bedroom Home Sales Market Report March 2024Waukesha County Homes For Sale, Waukesha County Real Estate, Kristin Johnston, RE/MAX   Real Estate Market Report for Waukesha County, WI for March 2024.  Waukesha County Real Estate, Waukesha County Homes For Sale My name is Kristin Johnston.  My market report gives you the real estate activity for Waukesha County, WI 3 bedroom homes for the last 30 days. Are you looking to buy a house in Waukesha County? Wondering what your Waukesha County Home is worth? Call/text me at 414 254 6647 or email me at kjohnston@remax.net. I specialize in Waukesha County Real Estate, and have a lot of experience with Waukesha Real Estate and Pewaukee Real Estate.  In fact, I have lived in Waukesha, WI since 1997.   Review my many happy client tes...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
Stay Alert: Red Flags to Look Out for First-Time Homebuyers As a first-time homebuyer, you may be excited and eager to find your dream home. However, it's important to approach the homebuying process with caution and stay alert for any potential red flags. Recognizing these red flags can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your new home is safe and structurally sound. In this blog, we will discuss key red flags that every first-time homebuyer should be aware of, as well as provide guidance on how to navigate home inspection findings and consider the legal and financial implications of purchasing a home. By staying alert and informed, you can make a confident and informed decision when buying your first home. Red Flags to Look Out for First Time HomebuyersWhen buying a house, ...
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By Cara Marcelle Mancuso, Call a Marana neighbor, I'm THERE!
(Golden Girls with SW Desert Homes)
Continuing education is crucial in the real estate field for several reasons. As a designated broker for the Golden Girls with SW Desert Homes, I have a duty not only to my own clients and sphere, but to the agents that work under our banner. Every two years, I am required by the state of Arizona to take 30 hours of continuing education, and a Code of Ethics class every 3 years marking me as a REALTOR® belonging to the National Association of Realtors®. Then there are the classes, webinars and zoom meetings one attends just to stay current in the local market.Real estate regulations and laws are constantly evolving. Continuing education ensures that we stay informed about any changes or updates in laws, regulations, and industry practices. For instance, you may have read of upcoming cha...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
Some Highlights When it comes to the current housing market, there are some myths circling around right now. Some of the more common ones are that it’s better to wait for mortgage rates to fall or prices to crash. But there are others about the supply of homes for sale and down payments.  Let’s connect so you have an expert to help separate fact from fiction in today’s housing market.  Contact us:PHP Houses142 W Lakeview AveUnit 1030Lake Mary, FL 32746Ph: (407) 641-1531Fax: (407) 205-1951email: info@phphouses.comLet’s Connect:FacebookLinkedinTwitterInstagramThe information contained, and the opinions expressed, in this article are not intended to be construed as investment advice. The author does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy or completeness of the information or opinions contai...
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By The Jeff Rickert Team, Poconos - RSPS - The Jeff Rickert Team
(RE/MAX Property Specialists)
Click here for price and locationEnjoy all the hard work and dedication the current owner has done, all the upgrades on this lovely Chalet in amenity filled Arrowhead Lake. Home is a very short walk to the beach and to The Lodge. Outside features - wrap around oversized deck, covered porch with ceiling fans. Inside features hardwood floors, granite countertops, SS appliances, tiled bathroom. Open loft space with skylights. Primary has in-suite brand new bathroom. 2 car garage with an extra large loft space waiting for the new owners to make it their own. Circular driveway to the garage. Heated basement offers additional space. Arrowhead features 2 lakes, 4 beaches, 3 outdoor pools, gym, basketball, tennis, and so much more. Make your appointment today. Loving life at the lake.Call Patri...
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By Chuck Carstensen, Minnesota/Wisconsin Real Estate Expert
(RE/MAX Results)
53241 Dupuis Road, Sandstone, MN 55072 -- $529,900Take a virtual tour of this lovely, updated five-bedroom, two-bathroom Sandstone home for sale, situated on 145 acres of pasture, hay, and wooded land. This two-story home is conveniently located between the Twin Cities and Duluth; not far from Robinson Quarry Park, hiking trails, Kettle River, and the Sandstone State Wildlife Management Area. The main level of this 1,932 finished square foot home for sale in Sandstone has an inviting entry/mudroom that leads into the revamped kitchen with a center island and ample cabinetry. The adjoining dining room leads into a spacious living room with sliding patio doors out to the deck--the perfect place to relax outdoors. Additionally, the main level has two good-size bedrooms, laundry, a half bat...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
El Arroyo stands as an iconic Austin gem, renowned for crafting the finest hand-squeezed margaritas and serving up delectable Black Angus beef tacos, among a plethora of other Tex-Mex delights, since 1975!Situated at the corner of West 5th and Campbell, this local favorite boasts a quirky marquee that captures attention. Daily, the billboard transforms with a fresh pun—spanning the spectrum of wit and humor—making it a delightful fixture at the heart of Austin's culinary scene. El Arroyo invites you to contribute your own puns on their website, with full permission to showcase them on their marquee. It's a quintessential "Keep Austin Weird" tradition that resonates with the spirit of our vibrant city!The laughter doesn't stop there—they share these puns on Instagram, drawing in admirers...
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By Victor Amadi, Greenville SC Realtor
(PRODUCER Realty, LLC)
From its inviting front porch to its elegant interior, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom new construction home for sale in Greater Greenville Upstate SC boasts over 3800 square feet of beautifully designed space. Step through the foyer and discover a formal dining room with a convenient adjacent butler pantry and an expansive walk-in pantry leading to the well-appointed kitchen, complete with a large center island and breakfast bar. Natural light floods the spacious family room and breakfast dining area, offering seamless access to the rear yard and covered patio. The main floor also has a secluded bedroom suite with a walk-in closet and private bath, while upstairs, the impressive primary bedroom suite features dual walk-in closets, a spa-inspired primary bath, and a morning area/sitting ar...
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By Brian Madigan, LL.B., Broker
(RE/MAX West Realty Inc., Brokerage (Toronto))
Commercial Bond Yields CMB 5 Year - 4.05% CANHOU 06/15/29 [+0.03%]     10 Year - 4.19% CANHOU 03/15/34 [+0.01%]     Floating Rate insured cost of funds 5.35% [-]     Prime Rate 7.20% [-]     GoC 2 Year - 4.35% CAN 02/01/26 [+0.04%]     3 Year - 4.00% CAN 03/01/27 [+0.04%]     5 Year - 3.76% CAN 03/01/29 [+0.03%]     10 Year - 3.72% CAN 06/01/34 [+0.01%]    
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By Laura Sellers, www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate, Inc.; www.AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com)
Clubview at Auburn University Club Discover Clubview at Auburn University Club, the ultimate golf course living community! Located in the desirable Yarbrough Farms, this twin home development offers the best of Auburn right at your doorstep. Just a little over 2 miles from Joran-Hare Stadium and the Auburn Arena, you’ll never miss a game or event! Plus, enjoy convenient access to recreation, fine dining, shopping, and cultural activities, making every day an adventure. Construction began in 2021, ensuring modern and stylish homes built to perfection. Michael Allen Homes, a renowned builder, is bringing this vision to life. Get ready to embrace a luxurious lifestyle with incredible neighborhood amenities! Indulge in the five-star clubhouse, savor delicious dining experiences, stay active...
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On April 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide housing building permits down 4.3% to 1,458,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,423,000 units in February of 2024, but higher 1.5% from 1,437,000 in March of 2023. Single family building permits declined 5.7% to a rate of 973,000 units in March of 2024, from 1,032,000 units in February of 2024, and there were 433,000 multifamily building permits issued in March of 2024.Nationwide housing starts dropped 14.7% to 1,321,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,549,000 units in February of 2024 and lower 4.3% from 1,380,000 units in March of 2023. Single family starts decreased 12.4% to a rate of 1,022,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,167,000 in February of 2024, and there were 290...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
On social media, I see folks asking if termite protect is really needed in The Villages, Florida and some people say they never had a problem and don’t think it is necessary while others quickly say yes you need protection, my opinion YES in a big way.  A few years ago, I went to see a home that was more than $100,000 below market value and I see why, the interior drywall had been removed from the back wall and all the studs were damaged by termites and needed replaced.  I didn’t even look into the attic at the roof trusses as I seen enough to know more damage was behind other walls and the ceiling.  For that home, I don’t know if you needed a crew of carpenters or a bulldozer.From The Florida Department of Agriculture:Subterranean TermitesOut of all the termite types, subterranean term...
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By Richard Weeks, REALTOR®, Broker
Here is the north Texas real estate market update for  April 19 2024.New properties for sale 1134Back On Market 135Price Decrease 666Price increase 61Active kick out 12Active option contract 323Active contingent 60Pending listings 407Sold listings 349Expired listings 23Cancelled listings 97Withdrawn listings 10Temporary off market listings 44Coming soon listings 114
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By Theresa Hus, The Official Real Estate Agent Directory
(RealEstateAgent.com)
You've likely been contemplating (amid news of escalating mortgage rates and rising home prices) whether 2024 is the right time to buy. Well, here's the gist: property values in the States have been on a rollercoaster, thanks partly to the economy's twists and turns.  You can apply no general formula to the real estate market nationwide. Prices and housing costs vary widely by location. Still, the unchanging rule of real estate always applies. It's all about location, location, location. If you're hunting in booming metros, brace yourself for higher tags. In quieter areas? More bang for your buck.Should you listen to friends and family before making a decision?Did you know that the median rent for all rental unit types in the States was $2,050 as of March 19, 2024? (source: Zillow) We c...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
Honest people are honest people and hence why they continue to be victims of wire fraud. Currently during the first quarter of 2024, 1 out of 10 real estate transactions encountered wire fraud. Additionally, nearly half or 48% of the loans processed ($65 billion) were vulnerable to both wire and title fraud. (Source: Funding Shield)And the news continues to trend toward the negative side with wire fraud issues increasing over each quarter.Please as sellers and buyers follow the wire fraud advisory given by your title firm, your lender and your real estate agents if they are involved.Dirt Road Real Estate does not handle any funds. However, as a licensed local professional real estate agent, I do include a Wire Fraud Advisory in all my presentation packets. Additionally, the local title ...
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By Linda Blumenthal, NYS Licenced Real Estate Salesperson, CBR
(631-819-2913)
April 19th - National Garlic Day:Enjoy your day!Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal.
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By Mark Don McInnes, Sandpoint-Idaho, North Idaho Real Estate - 208-255.6227
(Sandpoint Realty LLC)
Sandpoint Realty 'Friday Flag' a bit out of the norm this week.  I am partial to it though. While sitting in the living room I caught this out of the corner of my eye.  Reflection in one of my favorite photo's, purchased and signed in Leavenworth Washington from actual photograper.With the afternoon sun hitting just right and the breeze lifting 'Ole Glory' into the photo, I thought it unique, and worth sharing with you.  The photographer shared his story how he was behind a log taking this pic when the bear reared up, having sensed him being there.  The photographer shamelessly admitted, that as the bear moved on, he could not get rid of the shakes for an hour after being back in the car.  The shakes being from this magnificent, and intimidating animal, staring directly at him.   Mark D...
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By Kathy Streib, Home Stager/Redesign
Friday Fun…Where Do You Begin Your Reading? Most of us have routines for many of the things we do. We have a daily routine when we get up in the morning, what we do when we arrive at work, and what we do when we return home.  So…what’s your ActiveRain routine?  Where do you go first to start reading?Is it the Q&A?   The Featured (or front) page? A particular group such as Bananatude or Bartender Make It a Double? Or perhaps you begin with the Blogroll? And since we’re on the topic… When do you begin your ActiveRain Day?  Some begin early before they begin work, some at the end of the day, and others pop in during the day.   Me? I begin my day reading a handful of members who I know post early in the day.  I do the bulk of my reading in the evening but also try to pop in during the day. ...
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By Matthew Klinowski, PA, Naples Golf Guy | Find Your Dream Lifestyle
(Downing Frye Realty)
Bonita Bay Single Family Home Pending SaleThis spectacular Bonita Bay single family home is now under contract! Located in the Hidden Harbor neighborhood, this custom built home features a large pool and spa on an extended lanai.27411 Hidden River Ct. Bonita Springs, FL – List Price $2,900,000 More About Bonita Bay Single Family Home:The home features a wide open living kitchen and living area with soaring ceilings. With four bedrooms and a den, there is plenty of space for the entire family or entertaining friends.The outside lanai space includes a large outdoor kitchen under cover, with gas grill and beverage cooler. A large pool and spa with spectacular views of the tranquil lake behind the home. Four Bedrooms Plus Den Four and a Half Bathrooms 4,670 Square feet under air Three Car G...
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By Laura Cerrano, Certified Feng Shui Expert, Speaker & Researcher
(Feng Shui Manhattan Long Island)
Besides providing Feng Shui Consultations, Reiki Healing sessions and more, I've been playing for local bands based out of Long Island, Brooklyn and New York City. I had the pleasure of joining forces with Dan Strauss and Zigline to perform at Shrine World Music Venue in Harlem, NY on Wednesday night (April 17th, 2024). The evening was filled with soothing eclectic experimental sounds featuring Dan Strauss as the lead vocalist on guitar, Todd Rogers on violin, Raymond Russel on bass and myself, Laura Cerrano on percussion. To watch a live recording of our performance you can click on this link, Dan Strauss and Zigline at Shrine World Music Venue in Harlem, NY. Enjoy!P.s. this is an example of living the Feng Shui lifestyle.  In this case, it was planting a seed of an idea that brought j...
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