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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 Linda Edelwich, Serving Glastonbury & Beyond | 218 New London Trnk
(William Raveis Real Estate)
Ranch style homes in East Hampton occupy a specific and reliably active segment of the buyer market. The buyers pursuing them tend to be focused and decisive, which creates a dynamic worth understanding whether you are working with a buyer trying to find one or a seller preparing to list one. What drives buyer focus on ranch homesThe buyers searching specifically for ranch homes in East Hampton are almost always motivated by the practical value of one-level living. Bedrooms, bathrooms, and living areas on a single floor removes a friction point from daily life that accumulates in significance over time. Many of these buyers are planning ahead for long-term livability, and they recognize that a well-designed ranch layout supports comfortable daily living in ways that a two-story home may...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Family law matters are among the most personal and emotionally challenging legal issues a person can face. Whether the situation involves separation, parenting arrangements, property division, or financial support, the decisions made during this period often have lasting effects on families and their futures. It is understandable for people to feel uncertain, overwhelmed, or anxious when navigating unfamiliar legal processes.While every family's circumstances are unique, approaching family law matters with clarity and confidence can make the experience more manageable. By understanding the process, focusing on long-term goals, and seeking reliable professional guidance, individuals can make informed decisions that protect both their interests and the well-being of their families.Start b...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Australians like to think of themselves as friendly, but not too friendly. According to new research from Youi Insurance, more than half of Australians agree their neighbourhood runs on a set of unwritten rules, and a similar proportion say they would rather have neighbours who are polite but keep their distance than ones who are constantly popping over for a chat.That balance between friendliness and personal space works well until something disrupts it. A wandering pet. An overhanging tree. A fence that has quietly been rotting away for years. These everyday issues sit at the intersection of neighbourly etiquette and home insurance, and understanding how the two connect can save homeowners a great deal of stress.A nation that values politeness over closenessThe research paints a pictu...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Broker, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management Inc.-Destin)
Buying your first home is a big milestone, and a little preparation can go a long way toward making the process feel more manageable.The second time is obviously easier than the first time but be warned that things do change over time so the first time might be different than the second time.  🏡Building the right team and understanding your options before you start house hunting can help you move forward with confidence.If you're ready to take the first step, send me a message and let's get started!#thehelpfulagent #houseexpert #a081126 #househunting #dreamhome
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On August 4, 2026, the National Association of Realtor (NAR) reported on nationwide existing home sales values higher 0.5% to a median single family home price $424,900 at the end of 2nd quarter of 2026, from end of 1st quarter of 2026, and grew 1.5% from the end of 2nd quarter of 2025.NAR chief economist Lawrence Yun, stated “Sales rose in three of the four major regions, with the South leading the way due to faster job growth. The Northeast was the exception, held back partly by slower job growth and faster-appreciating home prices, which hurt affordability.”For more complete detailed information, on National Association of Realtor's 2nd quarter of 2026 home sales report, please click HERE
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If you've been thinking about buying a vacation home or investment property, St. George Island, Florida deserves a spot at the top of your list. Unlike many crowded beach destinations, this laid-back barrier island offers something buyers are finding harder and harder to locate—peace, natural beauty, and a slower pace of life.Whether you're looking for a family getaway, a retirement retreat, or a short-term rental investment, here's why so many people are choosing St. George Island.A Beach That Never Feels CrowdedOne of the biggest draws of St. George Island is its miles of beautiful white-sand beaches. Without the feel of a heavily commercialized tourist destination, the island maintains a peaceful atmosphere that's becoming increasingly rare along Florida's Gulf Coast.For homeowners, ...
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By Linda Edelwich, Serving Glastonbury & Beyond | 218 New London Trnk
(William Raveis Real Estate)
Relocating buyers consistently show up in Hebron searches for the same set of reasons, and understanding that profile helps agents working in eastern Hartford County serve them more efficiently. Here is what draws them here and what shapes their decision once they are in the market. The buyer profile that finds HebronThe relocating buyer in Hebron is almost always coming from a more developed environment and reacting to something specific about it. Density, proximity of neighboring properties, the general pace and feel of a more built-up area. They want more space, more quiet, and a home setting that feels genuinely distinct from what surrounds it.What distinguishes the Hebron relocating buyer from someone looking for full rural isolation is the second part of their priorities. They wan...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Packing looks like the easy part of a move until you are standing in a sea of half-filled boxes at midnight before the truck arrives. Most of the stress that hits on moving day was quietly built in during the packing that came before it. Avoid a handful of common mistakes, and the whole day gets dramatically smoother. The habits below take almost no extra effort, but they save hours of frustration and more than a few broken belongings.Starting Too LateThe number one error is leaving packing until the final days. Boxing up a home always takes longer than people expect, and rushing leads to breakage and lost items. Begin with the things you rarely use weeks in advance, and pack a little each day. Spreading the work out is the simplest way to keep the last night from turning into a panic. ...
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By Kerri Naslund-Monday, Savvy Bay Area CA Real Estate Team Leader
(Keller Williams/ The Monday Team)
Typically, there is a little bit of a real estate slowdown in the Bay Area during the month of August. The spring market is super happening, and early summer market stays spicy. But as families and professionals, take summer vacations and get ready for the upcoming school year to start again, there is often a little bit of a cool down on major transactions until fall when all the action comes back. School schedules definitely factor big time in the housing market. Families are definitely trying to get up in their new spot and finalize their home purchase before the upcoming school year starts. It absolutely effects how things play out, or the lack of action in August.September shows a big uptick in both new inventory and market action in general. Super high demand areas, that see fewer ...
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On August 3, 2026, Realtor.com reported there were 168,921 active listing inventory of homes in July of 2026 in the Midwest, increased 9.3% from July of 2025; while there were 92,214 new listed homes in July of 2026 down 1.9% from July of 2025. The median list price of a home was $329,000 in July of 2026, grew 0.2 from July of 2025, and houses stayed 1 day more in the market in July of 2026, from June of 2026 in the Midwest.There were 117,778 active listing inventory of homes in the Northeast in July of 2026, rose 8.3% from July of 2025; while there were 92,214 new listed in July of 2026, higher 3.2% from July of 2025. The median list price of a home was $542,450 in July of 2026 down 1.4% from July of 2025, and houses stayed 1 day less in the market in July of 2026, from July of 2025 in...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
.🏠 Market Pulse Gradual improvement after a softer first half of 2026 Buyers & sellers adjusting to today’s realities instead of waiting for “perfect conditions” Summer activity stronger than expected despite global and economic headwinds   📈 Mortgage Rates Rates are holding in the mid‑6% range, and buyers are finally accepting it 30‑year fixed climbed ~40 bps since January No major rate relief expected this year Buyers & sellers are now comfortable transacting at ~6.5%   🏡 Inventory Trends Inventory is rising, giving buyers more options Still ~350,000 listings short of pre‑pandemic levels Inventory up ~40% compared to the record‑low years (2022–2023) June active listings: 1.41M, up 4.2% YoY Big cities remain tight; suburban & secondary markets are seeing healthier supply   💰 Home Pric...
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By Jennifer Graff, Realtor serving the Las Vegas Valley
(The New Home Experts at Douglas Elliman Real Estate)
Summerlin is one of the most active new construction markets in the Las Vegas metro, with nationally recognized builders delivering modern homes across a wide range of price points in 2026. The community’s master-planned structure, proximity to Red Rock Canyon, and ongoing commercial development continue to drive demand. Before you step into a model home, though, you need to understand how new construction sales work, what the builder’s contract actually says, and why having your own representation matters from day one.Why Summerlin Keeps Drawing New Construction BuyersSummerlin is not a single neighborhood. It is a master-planned community spanning roughly 22,500 acres on the western edge of Las Vegas, developed by The Howard Hughes Corporation. That structure matters for new construct...
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By William Piotrowski, Just Call William 630-881-8655
(Diamond Residential Mortgage Corporation )
🏡📈 MORTGAGE INDUSTRY UPDATE: ROCKET POSTS BIG Q2 RESULTS 🚀The mortgage market continues to evolve, and the latest numbers show just how competitive the industry has become.🚀 Rocket Companies reported a massive Q2 2026 with:💰 $49.1 billion in mortgage loan closings📈 Record purchase market share at 6.2%🔁 Record refinance market share at 14.3%💵 $2.78 billion in total net revenue📊 $229 million in GAAP net incomeWhat makes this even more interesting?🏠 This growth happened during one of the toughest spring housing markets in years, with affordability challenges and higher mortgage rates continuing to impact buyers.The big story:🤖 Technology and AI continue to reshape the mortgage industry.Rocket reported strong results from AI tools helping loan officers manage clients, improve service, and c...
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By William Piotrowski, Just Call William 630-881-8655
(Diamond Residential Mortgage Corporation )
🏦 Why This Matters for Mortgage ProfessionalsThe dispute is drawing attention because the Federal Reserve plays a major role in setting monetary policy, which influences:📈 Short-term interest rates📉 Bond market expectations🏡 Mortgage rate direction and volatilityThe allegations center around whether Cook properly designated two properties as primary residences on mortgage documents before joining the Federal Reserve. Cook has denied wrongdoing, and her attorney has said the claims are unfounded.📊 The Bigger Mortgage Market ImpactThe immediate impact for borrowers and lenders is less about the individual case and more about Fed independence and market confidence.Mortgage rates are heavily influenced by: The 10-year Treasury yield Inflation expectations Fed policy expectations Investor co...
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By Teddy Lim, The Best or Nothing
(eXp Realty)
Yes. Short-term rental rules should be verified before making an offer. A property that looks profitable as an Airbnb may be limited by city regulations, owner-occupancy requirements, licensing, insurance, or condo and HOA rules.Before paying extra for projected nightly income, confirm what the next owner can legally operate. I’d also make sure the property works as a 30-day-plus or long-term rental.Key Points Seattle limits most operators to two STR units, with one generally tied to the operator’s primary residence. Bellevue restricts transient lodging in detached single-family homes and ADUs. Redmond updated its STR licensing requirements effective January 1, 2026. Kirkland’s detached-home rules are closely tied to primary-residence occupancy. Washington adds tax, safety, contact-info...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Real estate is about more than numbers—it’s about understanding people. 🏡 Experienced agents recognize patterns in buyer behavior, neighborhood preferences, and market trends that data alone can’t reveal. Discover how local knowledge, observation, and years of experience can help agents better anticipate what buyers truly want and make smarter decisions. I want to talk about something that doesn't get enough credit in real estate conversations about competitive advantage. Not technology. Not marketing budgets. Not social media followers, production rankings, or the size of your database. It's pattern recognition. Specifically, the kind of pattern recognition that comes from paying close attention to the same market for years and remembering what you've seen. I've been watching the East ...
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Construction project management is one of the most complex and demanding management disciplines. Construction projects bring together multiple specialised contractors, large capital investments, regulatory requirements, design changes, weather variability, and supply chain dependencies, all of which must be coordinated to deliver the finished building on time, within budget, and to the required quality standard. Managing this complexity effectively requires both technical knowledge and the management discipline to coordinate diverse teams and competing pressures.At jecasia-badges.com you will find construction project management guides, business consulting resources for construction companies, and practical advice on building project planning, contractor management, quality control, ris...
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On August 3, 2026, Realtor.com reported that nationwide median list price of a home was $428,950 in July of 2026, down 2.5% from June of 2026, and lower 2.4% from July of 2025.There were 1,162,252 active listed inventory of homes in July of 2026, higher 2.1% from June of 2026, and grew 2.1% from July of 2025.There were 423,732 new listed homes in July of 2026, dropped 8.6% from June of 2026, but unchanged 0.0% from July of 2025.Houses stayed 57 days in the market in July of 2026, increased 4 days from 53 in June of 2026, but down 1 day from 56 days in July of 2025.The median list price was $226.00 per square foot in July of 2026, declined 0.7% from June of 2026, and decreased 2.0% from July of 2025.For complete more detailed information about Realtor.com’s real estate trends for July of...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
2026 1031 Exchange Misconceptions — Gulf Coast Edition By Stallions Real Estate Group — PUT Charles In Charge™ Every year, investors across Pensacola, Pace, Gulf Breeze, and the entire Gulf Coast use Section 1031 of the Internal Revenue Code to defer capital gains taxes when selling investment property. The fundamentals are simple — but the rules can get messy fast. That’s where clear guidance matters. Below is the 2026 Gulf Coast Top 1031 Exchange Misconceptions List, rewritten in your brand voice and tailored to your markets.   1. Full Tax Deferral Misconception: “I only have to reinvest my gain or equity to fully defer taxes.” Fact — Gulf Coast Reality: To fully defer taxes, you must reinvest all net proceeds from the sale — not just the gain or basis. As your document states, “If i...
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By Hannah Williams, Expertise NE Philadelphia & Bucks 215-820-3376
(HomeStarr Realty)
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have introduced significant updates to their condominium lending guidelines—the most substantial changes we've seen in years. While these updates are intended to protect buyers and reduce financial risk, they could also make financing more challenging for some condo communities and impact how quickly homes sell.Why do these changes matter?Most conventional mortgage loans are ultimately backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. That means if a condominium project doesn't meet their updated standards, many buyers may no longer qualify for conventional financing in that community.In simple terms:Some buyers may have fewer financing options.Some condo communities may experience longer marketing times.HOAs may need to improve their financial health to remain eligible.Bu...
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