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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 Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
In real estate due the compliance issues along with recent lawsuits and settlements, there are “government testers” contacting real estate agents to ensure adherence to state and federal laws and regulations. Professional real estate agents must be aware of these government testers while not offending potential real estate sellers or buyers.This past week I received a text from a potential sales lead (“retired Air Force individual") who was a small business owner of home use products (nutrition, skin care, etc.) allegedly here in Kingman, AZ. This individual stated he is currently renting and is seeking to buy a house in the Fall of 2025.Here is the last sentence of the first text I received.“All safe and around children (pets) would you and the wife seriously consider using these if we...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Keeping your home clean can feel like an impossible task when juggling a full schedule, especially with kids, pets, or a partner who isn’t always on the same cleaning page. The dishes pile up—the laundry multiplies. And somehow, there's always a mysterious pile of stuff near the front door. While a sparkling, clutter-free home might seem like a far-off dream, it’s more achievable than you think—even with a busy family. The secret lies in smart habits, consistency, and knowing when to ask for help.If you're feeling overwhelmed by the mess and unsure where to start, exploring reliable dumpster options can be a surprising first step toward a cleaner, more manageable home. Clearing out years of accumulated clutter makes it easier to maintain order and gives you a fresh slate from which to w...
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By Eric Beaverford, Realtor in Edmonton www.ourhouseprice.ca
(Maxwell Polaris)
📉 Edmonton Mortgage Delinquency Trends – What the Numbers Reveal (2012–2024)If you're a homeowner in Edmonton or thinking about buying or selling in Alberta’s capital, here’s a deep dive into the mortgage delinquency rate trends over the last 12 years — and why it matters now more than ever. 👇🧠 What Is a Mortgage Delinquency Rate?The mortgage delinquency rate is the percentage of homeowners who are behind on their mortgage payments by 90 days or more. It’s one of the best indicators of economic stress and housing stability in any market.So what does this data say about Edmonton?📊 Edmonton’s Mortgage Delinquency Rate (2012–2024)Thanks to data compiled by CMHC and Equifax, we can now look at the quarterly delinquency rate for Edmonton from 2012 Q3 through the end of 2024. Here's what stan...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
In Oklahoma, adverse possession laws allow individuals to claim ownership of land they don’t legally own if certain conditions are met. Known as squatter’s rights, these laws can pose risks to property owners who aren’t vigilant about protecting their deeds. Understanding these laws and taking proactive measures, such as utilizing Home Title Security, can help safeguard your property from unauthorized claims.Understanding Squatter’s RightsSquatter’s rights enable individuals to occupy a property without the owner’s permission and potentially claim ownership over time. A squatter is someone who resides on land without legal authorization. In Oklahoma, squatters can gain ownership after living on a property for 15 years while fulfilling additional legal requirements, such as openly using ...
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By Aaron Eller, We Buy Houses Cash | We Buy Houses AS-IS
(Cash Offer Man)
Are you looking to sell your house in Missouri. Our company, Cash Offer Man buys houses in Missouri for cash. Get a free offer today by heading to our website or giving us a call at 314-912-4939. We love to work with local home owners and make your selling process super easy and get you the most amount of money for your house possible. Reach out today!
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Many homebuyers look for efficiency in a home just as much as curb appeal. Water-saving features rank high on buyer wish lists with the rise of utility costs and environmental concerns. Green upgrades like low-flow fixtures and efficient irrigation systems can boost sustainability and value. Learn how to make the right efficiency-focused improvements to make your listing stand out.How Water Sources Impact Home ValueBuyers pay attention to where a home gets water, so let’s compare well water vs. city water. City water tends to be more convenient; there’s usually steady pressure, treated water, and no extra equipment to manage. But it comes with a monthly bill, and some buyers worry about chemical additives or aging infrastructure.Well water doesn’t come with utility fees, but it does req...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you're getting ready to sell your house or just looking toward a future where you might sell, you may feel overwhelmed by all the advice about what does and doesn't lower your property value. More importantly, you probably want to know what provides a good return on investment. There are plenty of alterations that can bring up the value of your home, but the cost of adding them can cancel out any added value. Read this article to learn about how landscaping can impact real estate sales.1- Curb AppealYou've probably heard about curb appeal, the initial impression that potential buyers get when they visit your home. Landscaping is a big part of this. According to one study of real estate professionals, poor landscaping can reduce the value of your home by as much as 30%. Another study ...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
The real estate market is constantly changing. Yet, vacation homes still remain relevant for a wide range of reasons. Whether it’s a place for relaxation, a place for generations of a family to gather, or a financial investment for your future, vacation homes are found in almost every local real estate market. Exploring why vacation homes are still in high demand makes it possible to plan your next sale or purchase.1- Enjoying Greater Work FlexibilityThe rise of remote work means that many people can work anywhere in the world that has an Internet connection. Remote workers often purchase vacation homes that they can use on a rotating basis with their permanent residence. Knowing what to expect when they arrive at their vacation house makes it easier to stay on top of work responsibilit...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
As a real estate agent, you have the opportunity to work closely with clients who are making one of the most important decisions of their lives. Giving your clients a small gift is a great way to celebrate their decision to buy a home and help them remember you in the future. These eight gifts are sure to be a hit with any of your new home buyers.1- Create a Pretty Kitchen Utensil DisplayEveryone needs a spatula or a soup spoon. You can put a few kitchen utensils into a container to create a lovely display that clients will notice as they walk through their new home. Since many people don’t fully unpack on the first night, they may even be able to put your gift to use immediately.2- Put Together a Self-Care BasketMoving is exhausting work. Many new homeowners look forward to enjoying a ...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
The price of both homes and insurance policies continue to rise in the US, but home insurance is a necessity that can’t be ignored. Before purchasing a house, you need to consider insurance costs and options so that when you make the purchase, you have the right home insurance policy in place. Here are 8 things to check before buying an insurance policy for your new home.1. Know How Much Coverage Is NeededBefore anything else, it's important to know just how much home insurance coverage you actually need. If you don't get enough, you'll be underinsured and may not receive enough money from the company after a total loss. At the very least, you'll want enough coverage to rebuild your home. This is an amount known as replacement cost coverage.2. Decide If Any Add-Ons Are NecessaryCertain ...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Before moving to a new home, one of the most important things to do is to have the carpet professionally cleaned. Is it as soft as it used to be? Does it still look fresh and clean? Over time, even the best-kept carpets collect dust, grime, and more than a few mysteries deep in the fibers. Sure, vacuuming helps, but there's a reason why professional carpet cleaning services exist.Getting your carpet professionally cleaned isn't just about making it look better; it's about protecting your investment, improving the air you breathe, and creating a healthier environment for everyone under your roof. If you're still on the fence, here are six solid reasons to pick up the phone and book that appointment.1. Extend the Life of Your CarpetHigh-traffic areas naturally wear down more quickly, espe...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Many seniors are not comfortable with the idea of having to live in an assisted living facility or a nursing home, so they might purchase a new house for downsizing purposes. Maintaining their independence and being able to enjoy their golden years in a new home where they can lead their lifestyle is important to them. However, seniors with mobility issues, injuries, or neurological disorders can have trouble aging in place, and their families may not be too keen on the idea of letting them. One way to navigate these issues is with the support of a medical alert system. Whether you're a senior looking for additional support in a new home or a family member trying to make it safer for your loved one to live in a new home, here's how a medical alert system can help a senior with independe...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
In a market where timing, information, and user experience are critical, the real estate industry is rapidly embracing technology to stay competitive. One such innovation making waves is the use of QR codes. Once viewed as a novelty, QR codes have now become a practical and powerful tool in real estate marketing, connecting buyers and sellers more efficiently and seamlessly than ever before.The Rise of QR Codes in Property MarketingWith the widespread use of smartphones and the demand for contactless solutions, QR codes have emerged as a convenient bridge between physical property promotions and digital resources. Realtors, property managers, and agencies are leveraging this technology to provide instant access to property details, photos, videos, and more.Why QR Codes WorkQR codes elim...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Sometimes, homeowners face dilemmas regarding their pets' comfort and HVAC health. Pets are sensitive and require a balanced indoor environment to stay healthy. Also, your HVAC may become inefficient by pet's far, dander, and other mess. Maintaining the both is quite tricky.This is why pet-friendly HVAC solutions are necessary to improve air quality for pets. In this guide, I am going to share proper HVAC tips to make your home safe for pets.Why Pet-Friendly HVAC Solutions Are EssentialWe treat our little furry friends as our family members. A pet's health and comfort are as essential as our own. So, having proper indoor comfort is essential for us as well as our pets.Here’s why pet-friendly HVAC solutions are beneficial: Regulates a balanced and consistent temperature for your pets to ...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
I have been out on many listing appointments lately, and all but one are past clients.   One of my clients told me to "dress down", as their dogs would be jumping up on me, and he didn't want my dress clothes to get damaged.    So every time I was there, I wore jeans.   Sure feels more like a casual visit versus being his REALTOR and listing his house.On a visit to another of my past clients this week, they were surprised when I showed up dressed up.    Why would I not?    I was going over the comps, and we were discussing the list price for their home.  It will be a $1 million+ home, so YES I dressed up.   They said --- "you never have to get dressed up to come over."   Well, I feel more professional when dressed, hair and makeup done ready for WORK!I know in different parts of the Cou...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Palm trees are a defining feature of Los Angeles, shaping its streets, parks, and residential landscapes. These towering icons add charm to the city while offering shade and ecological benefits. However, maintaining them properly is crucial not just for aesthetic reasons but for sustainability and environmental conservation. Eco-friendly palm tree trimming is a practice that ensures these trees remain healthy while minimizing negative environmental impact.Sustainable trimming practices go beyond simple maintenance. They involve mindful cutting techniques, proper disposal of trimmed materials, and a commitment to reducing waste. Many property owners and landscapers overlook the ecological implications of improper palm care. By adopting green palm tree trimming techniques, residents and b...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
When it comes to selling a home, many people still picture the usual process: hiring a real estate agent, making repairs, cleaning up, scheduling showings, waiting for an offer, and crossing your fingers that financing doesn’t fall through. For some homeowners, that route works well. But for others—especially those dealing with life changes, distressed properties, or tight timelines—it can be stressful, expensive, and time-consuming.That’s why more and more homeowners across New Jersey are turning to companies that say, "we buy houses for cash."It’s not just a catchy phrase. For many people, it’s a faster, simpler, and more flexible alternative to the traditional real estate market.What Does It Mean to Sell for Cash?When people hear “cash offer,” they sometimes imagine a stack of bills ...
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By Scott Seaton Jr. SLS Home Insp, The Home Inspector With a Heart!
(SLS Home Inspections-Kankakee Will Iroquois Grundy Counties)
The Best is on the Way.     Spring selling season normally starts in March/April, depending on how severe the winter has treated us here in north central Illinois. This winter of 2024-2025 was mild in the view of most people. I personally only used my John Deere 6 forward 2 reverse electric start snowblower twice. The rest of the winter there wasn't enough snow to use the snowblower, the snow shovel was just fine.      We had some hints that there would be a very busy spring season based on how February went. We inspected 7 more homes in 2025 than 2024 and our average inspection fee increased $72 due to the addition of in house radon testing and sewer scope services. March was no different with similar increases in number of inspections and similar average inspection fee compared to 202...
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By John Sansaricq, Real Estate Broker serving Flagler County Florida
(SanCastle Realty LLC)
Last week, I posted about the challenges (and surprises) of navigating Buyer Broker Agreements in 2025—and let me tell you, the response blew me away.From elephants and tightropes to commission talks and clear communication, it’s clear: this topic hit a nerve with agents across the country.So I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the real insight and shared experiences you all brought to the table. Here’s what stood out:What Agents Are Saying:It’s all about early, clear communication.Multiple agents emphasized that the key is introducing the Buyer Broker Agreement early—and positioning it as a tool for protection and clarity, not just “required paperwork.”Buyers are more receptive than we think.When we walk them through how representation benefits them, and what could go wrong without...
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By DaCyn Walsh, Mountain & Horse Properties—Happy Trails Await!
(LoKation Real Estate)
What I’ve Learned as a New Real Estate Agent (So Far!)Spring 2025 marked a major turning point in my life—I made the leap from elementary school teacher of 13 years to newly licensed real estate agent. Teaching had my heart, but the long hours were taking a toll on my family, and deep down, I felt it was time for a new path—one that allowed me to support my family not just financially, but emotionally and physically too.After lots of prayer and reflection, I found myself looking into real estate school early in the new year. By January 17th, I dove in headfirst, excited (and maybe a little nervous) for what was to come.Now, five weeks into this new adventure, I’ve learned more than the coursework ever prepared me for. If you’re a brand-new agent—or thinking about becoming one—here’s wha...
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