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IntroductionBroker Price Opinions (BPOs) have long been a staple in the real estate industry, particularly during market downturns. However, the landscape has evolved, and BPOs are now at the forefront of real estate valuation, offering a cost-effective and timely alternative to traditional appraisals. In this blog, we'll explore how BPOs are thriving across the country and why BPO companies are becoming the leading edge in the real estate valuation world.The Thriving State of BPOsContrary to popular belief, BPOs are not just a relic of the past or a tool exclusively for distressed properties. They are in high demand for a variety of financial decisions, such as loan modifications, estate settlements, and even as a cost-effective alternative to traditional appraisals. Across the country... 09/29/2023

Friday Flags in Southington CT  Calendar House Senior CenterAround the corner from a listing of mine is a facility that always has a jammed parking lot. It's location is perfect as it is so close to 2 large 55+ senior housing complexes.Calendar House on Pleasant St in Southington CT is a community gathering and resource center for 55+ adults in Southington CT.It is an impressive building and just aside the main entrance stands a flagpole.Seniors are a generation of people that truly recognize our nations banner and for those that have served, it gets an acknowledgement as they pass.I am getting to believe that the flag guardians know my intent as it was a rather calm day and yet when I wanted a gust of wind, I got enough to allow the banner to unfurl and wave for me.An image like this j... 09/29/2023

Throwback Thursday's: memories can get foggy at times... I had a great conversation with one of my Active Rain Friends today.We reminisced about the days we saw each other in Boston... after I hung up the phone One Drive was sending me photos.Ironically, I could not remember the year or the month we got together. We were talking about our friend Grant Schneider  and his wife. Sadly, he is looking down at me as I write this post. Hope Phillis is doing OK since he was her care giver as far as we could remember.It was around 2018 or so and the photos did not show us with Grant Schneider  or George Souto  or Debe Maxwell, CRS  to name a few. Instead, I saw photos of our old friends from the Boston Days and of course lobster and clam photos.So, if you were at this meetup, please include phot... 09/28/2023

Dallas Texas Home for Sale Near North Central ExpresswayMake Your Offer Now!Dallas Texas home for sale near North Central Expressway. This three bedroom home sits on a corner lot with a fenced backyard. The spacious living and dining rooms feature vaulted ceilings and large windows letting in lots of natural light. The bedrooms allow room to relax and more natural light. Relax on the covered back patio with a cup of coffee in the morning and dinner with family and friends in the evening. There is space inside and out for entertaining.Special terms and conditions, and Buyer's Premium apply for all sales.Information About Brokerage ServicesTexas Real Estate Commission Consumer Protection NoticeTo Contact the Texas Department of Licensing and RegulationMyers Jackson License DisclosuresMyer... 09/28/2023

Welcome back to another edition of "Thursday Treasures," where we shine a spotlight on remarkable individuals and businesses making a positive impact. Join us as we uncover their inspiring journeys that encourage us all to become catalysts for change in our communities.Today, we introduce you to Aanal Sheth, a prominent figure in the world of Indian dance and the proud owner of Studio Dhoom.Her extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to the art of Indian dance have not only earned her widespread recognition but also the remarkable honor of performing at the White House. Throughout her illustrious career, she has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, cementing her status as a distinguished and accomplished artist in the realm of Indian dance.Aanal's story is just the ... 09/28/2023

On September 21, 2023, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that a median home value price was $407,100 in August of 2023 rose 3.9% from the price of $391,700 in August of 2022.Single family home sales were at annual rate of 3.60 million units in August of 2023 declined 1.4% from the annual rate of 3.65 million home sales in July of 2023, and fell 15.3% from home sales in August of 2022. The median single family home price was $413,500 in August of 2023, increased 3.7% from August of 2022.Condominium and co-op sales were at an annual rate of 440,000 units in August of 2023 higher 4.8% from July of 2023, but dropped 15.4% from August of 2022. Median existing condo price was $354,600 in August of 2023, gained 6.2% from $333,900 in August of 2022.Distressed homes sales were 1.0... 09/28/2023

    Maintaining a pool can be daunting even for seasoned homeowners. With so many chemicals, cleaning supplies, and methods to sift through, it's tough to know exactly the best way to keep your pool crystal clear and looking spectacular all season long. One of the most important options for maintaining your swimming oasis is knowing when an acid wash might be necessary. Understanding what an acid wash does—as well as its benefits—can help you make sound decisions about caring for your pool into summer and beyond.    In this post, we'll explore how exactly an acid wash keeps your pool plumbing pristine while helping repair any damages that can occur over time due to normal wear and tear or previous neglect. Read on to become a buff in all things understanding pool maintenance.   The Bas... 09/28/2023

“If my children think I'm genuine, no one else's opinion matters to me.” ― Beth Moore... #Delegate #VirtualAssistant #Outsourcing #CoachKaterina #Quotes #QuoteOfTheDay #QuotesDaily #QuotesToLiveBy 09/28/2023

  Maintaining a pool can be daunting even for seasoned homeowners. With so many chemicals, cleaning supplies, and methods to sift through, it's tough to know exactly the best way to keep your pool crystal clear and looking spectacular all season long. One of the most important options for maintaining your swimming oasis is knowing when an acid wash might be necessary. Understanding what an acid wash does—as well as its benefits—can help you make sound decisions about caring for your pool into summer and beyond.  In this post, we'll explore how exactly an acid wash keeps your pool plumbing pristine while helping repair any damages that can occur over time due to normal wear and tear or previous neglect. Read on to become a buff in all things understanding pool maintenance. The Basics of ... 09/28/2023

 Are you looking for ways to market yourself or your business on TikTok in 2023? If so, then this is the post for you! Over the last few years, TikTok has quickly become one of the most popular social media apps. With millions of active users each month and countless creative opportunities, it's a great platform to share your story and build an online presence. And with its marketing capabilities growing increasingly powerful every day, now is the perfect time to get started. In this comprehensive guide, we'll provide step-by-step instructions on how to use TikTok as a valuable marketing tool in 2023 - from understanding basics like hashtags and choosing content topics to advanced techniques like influencer campaigns and video optimization - so that you can make sure you're getting maxi... 09/28/2023

Zoom Call  9.26.23  Paddy Deighan Using AI the Right WayThe Zoom Call this week was entertainingly presented by ActiveRain member Paddy Deighan, a real estate lawyer and a highly qualified individual as offered with some of the conversation he presented.Paddy started his presentation as a continuation of the AI Challenge in June.He expressed that AI tends to be greatly misunderstood, as evidenced, from his experiences with other areas in which he is involved. He spoke of a conversation with a person he called the Godfather of AI, Dr Kelly of IBM who manages 15,000 PhD's at IBM. AI has really been a factor with us for over 60 years, with Hal 9000 in 2001 Space Odyssey.He expressed that AI is greatly misunderstood and misused and requested that someone on the call that has used AI and dis... 09/28/2023

As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, it's apple-picking season in the DC Metro area! If you're looking for a fun and family-friendly fall activity, apple picking is a fantastic choice. Whether you're in search of the perfect apple for pie-making or simply want to enjoy the beauty of an orchard, you're in luck. We've compiled a list of the top 5 apple-picking destinations around the DC Metro area that promise an unforgettable experience. 1. Baugher’s Orchard Location: 1015 Baugher Rd, Westminster, MD 21158 Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday in September, 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday in October Baugher’s Orchard is a family-owned gem located just a short drive from DC. With a wide variety of apple varieties, including classics like Gala and Granny Smith, ... 09/28/2023

With Cyber Security Awareness month set to kick off on October 1, a new survey finds that the boards of U.S. companies should pay attention. The Wall Street Journal reports that an analysis by software provider Diligent found 88% of companies listed on the S&P 500 have no directors who are cyber security experts.The survey defined “experts” as those who had served as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or who had technology experience, including those who had previously held senior roles in technology. The survey also found that 52% of companies had at least one member of the Board of Directors with technology experience “adjacent to cyber security.” NightDragon CEO Dave DeWalt, who commissioned the survey with Diligent, said, “This lack of momentum in the boardroom continues to... 09/28/2023

In the fast-paced world of real estate, every call could be a game-changer. Commission-based professionals often find themselves tethered to their phones, living in fear of missing that one pivotal call. But what if I told you there's a way to reclaim your freedom, stand out from the crowd, and still come off as the top-notch professional you are? Enter: The Daily Voicemail Hack.🔥**Why Update Your Voicemail Daily?**🔥Stand Out from the CrowdEvery time you miss a call and the caller hears your updated voicemail, they immediately recognize your dedication and commitment. It's a clear indicator that you're on top of your game and are meticulous in your approach - a trait every client appreciates, especially in the real estate world.Reclaim Your FreedomBy setting clear expectations through y... 09/28/2023

09/28/2023

Wordless Wednesdays: a great gift but what a disappointment... we often give gifts with good intentions, but there are times when the results are disappointing.I tried to re order some pretzels for Diane, but they were out of stock.... so with that said I moved on where everyone does Searched on the Internet and found another pretzel delivery service.The delivery was via Fed/ Ex and the package was covered with a couple of small ice packets... very tiny if you asked me. When I took it they were actually warm.... gratefully Diane did not open it up until a few days later.Now when she did open it up, her disappointment was huge the chocolate covered pretzels looked tired.... then there was one row, well see for yourself totally crumbled up.So glad I did not send this to a client. They wou... 09/27/2023

 As everyone is aware we have our share of problems with insurance in California, but I was surprised at how insurance companies in their effort to get out of California, are actually cancelling good customers.  Here is a perspective from an insurance broker I spoke to recently!  And some good advice on what not to do!This post is part of the #30dayrealestatesocialmediachallenge and is for day 24 of The 30-Day Real Estate Social Media Challenge:“Share an opinion or perspective on a hot topic or trend in the world of real estate.” 09/28/2023

When I came to Keller Williams Realty, years ago, I was lucky enough to meet Mo Anderson at a couple of events.  She is an amazing woman with an amazing story.  She is the daughter of a poor tenant farmer from Oklahoma.  And she became CEO of one of the largest real estate franchises in the world!  Listening to her at KW Family Reunions and KW Mega Camp was always so inspirational.  She truly inspires so many people to be not only better agents, but better people.  She has been an inspiration to me since I came to Keller Williams in 2005!Here is a link to a blog post I wrote in 2008 here on ActiveRain after attending Quantum Leap with Mo Anderson.This post is for day 23 of The 30-Day Real Estate Social Media Challenge:“Post a photo of yourself with one of your mentors or role models in ... 09/28/2023

I have been blessed with so many clients over the years who have used me over and over or who have referred me to friends and family.  I have 2 clients who I am sure have closed more transactions with me than any others and have also referred me to friends and family through the years.                    Both of these clients were honored at our Client Appreciation Party last year.  Each of them have either bought and sold or referred me to family and friends over 14 times in the past 10+ years.  I not only consider them #foreverclients but also dear friends now.  As our Client Appreciation Party is coming up again in 2 weeks, it seems like a more than appropriate time to say thank you to Amy and Donna once again.  This post is for day 22 of The 30-Day Real Estate Social Media Challenge... 09/27/2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of the real estate market, it's crucial to stay informed about the latest trends and developments. The DC Metro midweek market report brings you up-to-date insights into what's happening in the local real estate scene.The recent surge in interest rates, reaching a 22-year high at almost 7.5%, has understandably raised concerns among potential homebuyers. However, it's important to note that even in this challenging market, opportunities abound.Interest RatesOne of the most significant recent developments in the DC Metro real estate market is the surge in interest rates. At nearly 7.5%, these rates haven't been seen in over two decades. Naturally, this has caused some anxiety among prospective buyers, but it's crucial to remember that interest rates are onl... 09/27/2023