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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 Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
The tulips are at its peak at Pilot Point Farms in Denton, County. After splashing through rain puddles in past weeks and knowing there is a 40% chance of rain on Thursday, March 14, 2024, I drove back to the country to see what the farmers predicted was the best time to pick tulips. I was sure to pack my camera and my wallet.  It was a beautiful sunny day. The air smelled clean and fresh. My camera and purse were next to me. I knew I was going to be extremely happy and excited as a child with her puppy to see and pick tulips!  Upon arrival there were fields of pastel tulips. As I passed through the entrance, I saw children running through the tulip rows and people picking tulips. Unlike the first day, a week or so ago, tulips were in abundance! I picked up my basket and carried it over...
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By Kathy Streib, Home Stager/Redesign
Through the Years…What a Buffet of LearningBy now you know that we had a special Zoom Call with Brad Andersohn this week. As others have said it was a reunion of sorts.  Some were early ActiveRain members…some made Tuesday their first ActiveRain call…and the rest have made the Zoom Call a weekly habit.                                                                   (From 2020)What struck me was that this Tuesday at 2 PM EST Zoom Call has been around for FOUR years!  What began during Covid from Marie Story’s request for a Zoom “Coffee” date morphed into a weekly sharing of the minds. I know that many have standing appointments on Tuesday at 2 PM EST and that there are some who “don’t do Zoom” but I have learned something from every call. For example…in 2020…~Multi-generational living ...
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By Brad Andersohn, ActiveBrad - 707.646.1876
(Retired Executive Director of Education at eXp)
Is blogging on Activerain from a mobile device doable and even necessary when you’re out in the world and Mobile? My answer, yes! The fact and reality is I’m doing it right here right now. Why? To see how much effort really goes into creating a blog post quickly and efficiently while out on the road and living your life?I wanted to see how much time it took, how many resources I needed, and how quickly I could get links, images, videos, and more posted on a blog posting. I also wanted to see if there would be any hitches in my giddyup?! You know, bugs and glitches, etc. We all know mobile isn’t the same as pads, and laptops etc.I’m creating this post using an iPhone and I suddenly realize how important this could be to track my progress along with giving guidance and instructions on how...
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By Anna "Banana" Kruchten, 602-380-4886
(HomeSmart Real Estate )
We humans are well trained when it comes to doing what our dogs want.  Well, kind of and kind of not.  But - boy oh boy these guys are good at making it well known just exactly what they want  - treats of course! That got me to thinking about one of my favorite quotes......... What you think about and what you get always matches!                                                                              Esther Hicks Recently I've been working  on keeping my head on straight! And that is no joke!  About 3 weeks ago I went to new dentist and OMG I had no idea of what could go wrong. For a simple cleaning and Xrays the gal had me in that dentist chair for over 2 hours.  Think about it, 2 hours of laying kind of upside down in weird position.  I had no idea of how bad that would effect my...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
My Reflections on an Amazing ActiveRain Zoom Call on 3/12/2024In some ways this post about our Zoom call with Brad Andersohn was easy to write, but it was also a bit of a challenge.It wasn’t that the topic is all that difficult to write about, but more due to all the emotions that arise as a result of what happened yesterday on the weekly Zoom call, and my involvement with the most amazing online community around since September 2006!Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, TikTok…eat your heart out!Sorry I did not snap a photo of the meeting attendees but there’s one in Brad’s most recent post about ActiveRain.Those of you new to ActiveRain, or who don’t participate regularly, might not yet understand all this, but stick around…you won’t regret it.First of all…if you are a member, new...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Hey there, house hunters! Let's talk about this week's housing market report and see where we're at.Last weekend, while I was busy showing homes around 12:15, something remarkable caught my eye. An open house slated for 1:00 in Ashburn, VA had already drawn a crowd of 30 eager house-hunters. Despite some wild weather, the turnout was impressive, leading to a staggering 15 offers on the property.Chatting with the realtor, we learned that the home, listed at around $150,000 above the listing price as the highest offer. It might sound intense, but here's the silver lining: I've noticed a growing inventory, especially in Northern Virginia's Fairfax County. More homes are hitting the market, offering hope to buyers.However, it's a different story in Montgomery and Loudoun counties. There, th...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Helpful guide! Dividing vacation property after a divorce can be complex, but this blog offers practical advice for navigating this process. From understanding ownership rights to considering tax implications, these tips can help divorcing couples make informed decisions. Thanks for the insightful guidance!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Divorce often entails the division of assets, including vacation properties, which can be a complex and emotionally charged process. Whether it's a beachfront condo, a mountain cabin, or a lakeside retreat, deciding what to do with vacation property requires careful consideration and negotiation. So how do you split up vacation properties after a divorce? Let's find out. 1. Understand Your Legal Rights and Options Before proceeding...
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By Legal Info, Here For Your Legal Needs
Divorce often entails the division of assets, including vacation properties, which can be a complex and emotionally charged process. Whether it's a beachfront condo, a mountain cabin, or a lakeside retreat, deciding what to do with vacation property requires careful consideration and negotiation. So how do you split up vacation properties after a divorce? Let's find out.1. Understand Your Legal Rights and OptionsBefore proceeding with the division of vacation property, it's essential to understand your legal rights and options under state law.In many jurisdictions, vacation property acquired during the marriage is considered marital property and subject to equitable distribution, which means it will be divided fairly but not necessarily equally between spouses. Be sure to consult with a...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This residential property in Columbus went from just listed to under contract in a blink! It's a proof that the market is HOT! Want to achieve the same results? Let's work together to make your real estate dreams a reality. If you're ready to make a move, we're here to make it happen. MULITIPLE OFFERS RECERVED! Contact us today! ☎ 614 - 431 - 1220 | 📧 rjoe@kw.com
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By Margaret Rome Baltimore 410-530-2400, Sell Your Home With Margaret Rome
( HomeRome Realty 410-530-2400)
3436 Halcyon Road Stevenson 21153MLSMDBC2048248Unique Homes May Take Longer To SellThis 90-year-old farmhouse sits on 2.6 acres of beautiful Stevenson land and is looking for a new owner. With over 50 windows and four finished levels, the house features classic and timeless designs, five to six bedrooms (including two primary suites), and 3 1/2 baths. For more information on this unique homeCall Margaret Rome
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
The value and power of Activerains Real Estate Network is not measurable in my honest opinion. Your path, story, journey, and experience will be unique and custom to you, only you, and no one else.Today I had the chance to co-host a weekly Zoom session held by my dear friend Debe Maxwell on Activerain. The topic was "Why Activerain" and "What's the value and purpose of blogging?" First, let me say that the attendees and guests on this call made me realize every bit of value that has personally come from this network. I also realized how much more value can and will come from this real estate network going forward. There is no website, platform, social media app, or space quite like Activerain. More value and opportunity than any other site or location in the real estate industry. It wa...
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By Ralph Magin, Miami Homes For Sale
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
What Mortgage Rate Do You Need To Move in Miami-Dade Florida? If you’ve been thinking about buying a home, mortgage rates are probably top of mind for you. They may even be why you’ve put your plans on hold for now. When rates climbed near 8% last year, some buyers found the numbers just didn’t make sense for their budget anymore. That may be the case for you too.Data from Bright MLS shows the top reason buyers delayed their plans to move is due to high mortgage rates (see graph below):David Childers, CEO at Keeping Current Matters, speaks to this statistic in the recent How’s The Market podcast:“Three quarters of buyers said ‘we’re out’ due to mortgage rates. Here’s what I know going forward. That will change in 2024.”That’s because mortgage rates have come down off their peak last Oct...
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Posts Just For You- This Week at ActiveRain March 10 to March 16, 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! March 9: John Henry If you didn't care for the '2 foot rule'...We have to find our own way to "decluttering" our lives. What works for you? March 11: Holly Porter Household to HomesLet's welcome Holly to ActiveRain. I enjoyed her first post and loved learning about her.  Aura Alex Teamwork-The Bridge From Impossible to PossibleNo matter if in business or our personal lives, teamwork is key. As always, love Aura's way with wor...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
Upscale yet affordable solutions for successful real estate sales: the magic of wallpaperIn the realm of real estate, every home has its story, and every property on the market requires careful attention to detail to captivate potential buyers. One of the most crucial aspects is the visual impression a space leaves on clients. In this context, utilizing wallpaper can be a pivotal element in creating an attractive atmosphere that magnetizes potential buyers.The transformative power of wallpaperWallpaper is not just a simple wall covering; it's a powerful tool for interior transformation that can significantly enhance a property's value. The ability to quickly and relatively inexpensively refresh a room's décor with wallpaper makes it an integral part of the marketing strategy when sellin...
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By Brad Andersohn, ActiveBrad - 707.646.1876
(Retired Executive Director of Education at eXp)
The value and power of Activerains Real Estate Network is not measurable in my honest opinion. Your path, story, journey, and experience will be unique and custom to you, only you, and no one else.Today I had the chance to co-host a weekly Zoom session held by my dear friend Debe Maxwell on Activerain. The topic was "Why Activerain" and "What's the value and purpose of blogging?"First, let me say that the attendees and guests on this call made me realize every bit of value that has personally come from this network. I also realized how much more value can and will come from this real estate network going forward.There is no website, platform, social media app, or space quite like Activerain. More value and opportunity than any other site or location in the real estate industry. It was t...
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By Ed Silva, 203-206-0754, Central CT Real Estate Broker Serving all equally
(Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 )
Zoom Call 3.12.24  Brad Andersohn Blogging on ActiveRainThe Zoom call this week was a trip down memory lane for those that have been here long enough to have attended a RainCamp and were members before 2010.There once was a man, Brad Andersohn, that was the Technology Guru and a Community Leader on ActiveRain with an energy that was contagious. He posted blogs that educated and made the education of many easy.Through the progression of owners and time, Brad has maintained his enthusiasm for blogging and also offered his thoughts on why and how blogging can be important with business growth.His opening remarks, after acknowledging the familiar faces on the call were essentially: The reality of blogging are the friends that are made from the interaction. Plus, if done right and effectivel...
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By Daniel Ramsey, MyOutDesk - Real Estate Virtual Professionals
(MyOutDesk)
As the leader in your business, you'd think that the job you do is to "lead" — right? There's more to it than that... in fact, there are 7 jobs you probably already have but haven't paid as much attention to.As a leader, you should have an in-depth understanding of your industry, including major players, trends, and earnings calls, to make informed decisions. You should also have a solid grasp of financial numbers, such as customer acquisition cost, lifetime value, and cash flow, to enable strategic shifts and profitability.Then comes the next three essential roles of a leader: product and service obsession, setting the culture and environment, and hunting talent. You must deeply care about customers' needs, create a positive work atmosphere, and bring in and retain your top performers....
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By Kodama Koi Farm, High Quality Japanese Nishikigoi (koi fish)
(Kodama Koi Farm)
Feel free to post any of your queries, and tips about Koi and Pond. Dont hesitate to join and post. Unlocking the full recreational potential of ponds requires specialized knowledge and expertise. From cultivating vibrant koi ecosystems to maintaining pristine water features, KODAMA KOI FARMM tips will guide you towards optimizing the value and enjoyment of pond-centric real estate investments.KOI AND POND CARE      
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By Liz and Bill Spear, Transaction Alliance Cincinnati & Dayton suburbs
(Transaction Alliance 513.520.5305 www.LizTour.com)
When you first start blogging, chances are you'll blog about ANYTHING just to get a post completed!  Unless you've got prior experience blogging before arriving here in the Rain, I liken beginning blogging to being a kid with training wheels on your bike.  You're moving along, maybe not too quickly, and maybe with some side to side wobbles, but you're heading in the rough direction you want to go.As you gain experience blogging, it usually gets easier.  The mechanics are in place.  You know how to use the blog editor, where to find usable pictures, and the ideas come easier.As you progress, the next step is determining how to prioritize your topics.The key is asking yourself:  "Who is my target audience?".Is it other real estate professionals or consumers?The answer influences not just ...
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
"THE DOOR THAT NOBODY ELSE WILL GO IN AT,SEEMS ALWAYS TO SWING OPEN WIDELY FOR ME."CLARA BARTON March is American Red Cross Month. There are many volunteers. They say: "Having a servants' heart means that no job is too small to be beneath us:  any way we can help is great! That's what we're here for, to serve.  In Denton County, Texas, and throughout the Red Cross DFW Metro West Chapter, our gratitude goes out to those who can be counted on to step up when duty calls, willingly do so, to provide a beacon of hope for their North Texas neighbors. Here is what my community has achieved: In 2023, the DFW Metro West Chaper assisted 665 families while responding to more than 425 disasters to deliver shelter, food and comfort. There were 504 blood drives held by Red Cross blood hosts in 2023, ...
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