Admin

Real Estate General Information

Finally – a place for real estate consumers to bring all of their questions and find answers from the experts. Unlike many sites that plaster articles written by authors with dubious real estate credentials, ActiveRain gives you the skinny from the pros. How?


ActiveRain is the real estate industry's favorite hang-out – a virtual water cooler for real estate professionals.


Imagine walking into the break room of a mega real estate office that houses over 300,000 real estate agents, and then being able to pick the brains of some of the best minds in your market. Questions on moving, relocation to a new area, vacation homes or just buying and selling real estate in general are all fair game.


ActiveRain's current content library contains millions of articles. You'll find articles on everything from investing in real estate to what to watch out for when renting. If you can't find what you're looking for, stick around – the pages are updated constantly and new, fresh information is added daily.


If you're in the market to buy, sell, rent, stage or even refinance a home and have questions, congratulations – you've found the mother lode of answers here at ActiveRain!

Recent blogs on Real Estate General Information
By Jeremy Williams, Real Estate Team Lead and Real Estate Coach
(Red Hawk Coaching and Red Hawk Property Team powered by JLA Realty)
Are you searching for a move-in-ready lease property in New Caney, Texas? Look no further! This beautifully maintained home, located at 18165 Woodpecker Trail in the highly desirable Porters Mill community, is now available for immediate lease. With modern conveniences, energy-efficient features, and a fantastic location, this home has everything you need for comfortable living.Search for more details and pictures of this home for lease. Listed by Judith Vela brokered by JLA Realty.Key Features of 18165 Woodpecker TrailEnergy-Efficient LivingThis home is equipped with solar panels, offering significant energy savings and making it an eco-friendly choice. Additionally, it includes a water softener and a tankless water heater, ensuring maximum efficiency and convenience for everyday life....
Comments 1
By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
When it comes to determining the value of a property, two common tools in the real estate industry are appraisals and broker price opinions (BPOs). While both serve as valuation tools, they differ significantly in terms of purpose, process, cost, and who conducts them. This blog will break down these differences in detail, helping real estate agents, homeowners, and investors understand when to use each.  What is an Appraisal?An appraisal is a professional, unbiased opinion of a property's value conducted by a licensed or certified real estate appraiser. It is a comprehensive process designed to establish the fair market value of a property.Key Characteristics of an Appraisal:1. Purpose:     - Primarily used in lending transactions, such as mortgage approvals, refinancing, or estate set...
Comments 2
By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Westminster, COWed Jan 22 2025This week the median list price for Westminster, CO is $604,400. Median List Price $604,400 Median Price of New Listings $655,000 Per Square Foot $300 Average Days on Market 99 Median Days on Market 56 Price Decreased 45% Price Increased 2% Relisted 6% Inventory 51 Median Rent $2,800  We need more homes on the market.  Give me a call for a free CMA
Comments 4
By Jeremy Williams, Real Estate Team Lead and Real Estate Coach
(Red Hawk Coaching and Red Hawk Property Team powered by JLA Realty)
Are you a licensed Realtor® in Texas seeking better support, expert coaching, and a collaborative team environment? The Red Hawk Property Team at JLA Realty, led by Jeremy Williams, offers everything you need to grow your business and achieve your goals. With over 20 years in real estate and 15 years of coaching experience, Jeremy has created a team that focuses on agent success through personalized guidance and industry-leading resources.Why Join the Red Hawk Property Team? Personalized Coaching: Gain access to Jeremy’s proven expertise with strategies tailored to help you succeed. Top-Tier Training: Build your skills and confidence through JLA University, boot camps, and exclusive training events. Transparent Income Structure: Enjoy an 80/20 commission split with a low cap, maximizing...
Comments 0
By Alan Brown, 35 Years of Real Estate Experience .
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Living at Southern Dunes Golf Community in Haines City, Florida Located in the heart of Haines City, Florida, Southern Dunes Golf Community offers a serene and luxurious living experience enveloped by the beauty of one of Central Florida's top-rated golf courses. Designed by Steve Smyers, this award-winning 18-hole course challenges golfers with its dramatic hillside layout, undulating greens, and strategic bunkers, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts.  Beyond the greens, residents enjoy the peaceful ambiance of a gated community with 24-hour security, ensuring safety and privacy. The neighborhood boasts a variety of housing options, from cozy condos to spacious villas, many of which offer stunning views of the golf course or conservation areas. Amenities include community pools, ten...
Comments 1
By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
 It allows homeowners to transfer their property tax base to a new home, even if it's more expensive, within the state. This can significantly ease financial burdens for those rebuilding after disasters.Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP The wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County in January 2025 left many families reeling. Homes were destroyed, memories were lost, and the path to recovery feels daunting for countless residents. If you’ve been affected, there’s one silver lining that could ease the burden: Proposition 19. This law might sound like just another policy on paper, but for wildfire victims, it’s a game-changer when it comes to property taxes. Let’s talk about how it works and how it can help you get back on your feet. What Does Proposition 19 Actua...
Comments 3
By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
What do you think of an agent that purposely list the property size wrong by a large amount?  An agent intentionally misrepresenting a property’s size by a significant amount is both unethical and potentially illegal. Such actions violate the trust of clients, buyers, and other real estate professionals. Here are the key issues: 1. Ethical Violations Misrepresentation breaches the Code of Ethics set by organizations like the National Association of Realtors (NAR), which requires agents to act with honesty and integrity. It undermines the agent’s credibility and the profession's reputation. 2. Legal Risks Listing the wrong size knowingly could result in accusations of fraud or misrepresentation. Buyers who discover the discrepancy may sue for damages, leading to potential financial and l...
Comments 2
By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
It's been years but when I lived in Moorhead MN, sister city to Fargo ND, I remember a couple of storms where a snow drift was high enough to go over part of our split level home and the front door was completely buried. That was 50 years prior to Timmothy being born so I don't know where he came up with this cartoon as we have not had anything close to it in his lifetime.This home is very similar to the split-level home I grew up in during the 70's.Cartoons are meant to be funny so knowing that most doors open inward I find it even funnier that Joe doesn't think he can open the door.There are some good Real Estate applications to this subject and the picture above.#1) Snow is NOT light! If you live in an environment where this could happen you want a home inspection of the rafters... e...
Comments 8
By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Thornton, COTue Jan 21 2025This week the median list price for Thornton, CO is $595,000.  Lower inventory of only 42 homes. Median List Price $595,000 Median Price of New Listings $602,500 Per Square Foot $265 Average Days on Market 105 Median Days on Market 70 Price Decreased 52% Price Increased 5% Relisted 0% Inventory 42 Median Rent $2,695  
Comments 2
By Karl Hadland, Real estate agent in Bellingham
(Karl Hadland - Northwest Home Team, Re/Max Whatcom County)
What the Weather Is Really Like in Bellingham, WABellingham is located pretty much halfway between Seattle Wa, to the South, and Vancouver, BC, to the North. Both cities are approximately 90 minutes away in either direction. Bellingham is a Pacific Northwest Gem with a population just over 100k and around 250,000 in Whatcom County. The Bellingham area offers a diverse range of living styles ranging from city life, country living on a farm, or ocean views overlooking the San Juan Islands to the West. But one question often asked is "Does it really rain a lot in Bellingham? So this blog post addresses all 4 seasons and what you'd expect if you lived in Bellingham, WA.Winter: Mild Temperatures and Rain (December to February)You might be surprised to find out that Western Washington, and Be...
Comments 4
By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
The Wealth-Building Power of Homeownership with Charles Stallions, Your Trusted Real Estate BrokerHomeownership has long been one of the most effective ways to build wealth, and for good reason. According to data from the Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED), homes have appreciated at an average rate of 5.56% over the past 60 years, consistently outpacing inflation, which averaged 3.7% during the same period.This significant difference is why owning a home is a powerful wealth-building tool. When combined with mortgage amortization, homeownership increases your net worth and provides the added benefit of an asset you can live in and enjoy with your family and friends. As your trusted real estate broker, Charles Stallions can guide you every step of the way to ensure your investment maxi...
Comments 4
By Debbie Sagorin, Marketing Irvine to the Highest Level
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Moving to a new city is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. If you’re planning to relocate to beautiful Irvine, you need a trusted expert by your side to make the process seamless. As a Relocation Certified agent and a member of Coldwell Banker Realty’s dedicated relocation team, I have the resources, expertise, and personal touch to ensure your move is stress-free. 🌟   Why Work With Me for Your Irvine Move? I specialize in helping individuals, families, and employees relocate to Irvine and nearby areas. Here’s what one happy client, C. Haas, had to say about working with me:"Debbie and her husband Mike were outstanding to work with! I’ve purchased 22 homes and worked with many realtors in many parts of the country, and I have to say that she is at the top of the list. She was ...
Comments 0
By Matt Helganz
(Meridian Capital Real Estate)
The wildfires that swept through Los Angeles County in January 2025 left many families reeling. Homes were destroyed, memories were lost, and the path to recovery feels daunting for countless residents. If you’ve been affected, there’s one silver lining that could ease the burden: Proposition 19.This law might sound like just another policy on paper, but for wildfire victims, it’s a game-changer when it comes to property taxes. Let’s talk about how it works and how it can help you get back on your feet.What Does Proposition 19 Actually Do?Imagine losing your home to a wildfire, only to find that rebuilding or buying a new one comes with a huge increase in property taxes. That’s where Proposition 19 steps in.Under this law, if your primary home was damaged or destroyed in a disaster, you...
Comments 2
By Jeff Masich-Scottsdale AZ Associate Broker,MBA,GRI, Arizona Homes and Land Group/ Buy or Sell
(HomeSmart Real Estate)
The Ice Maden and her POLAR VORTEX is unrelenting this week.Ice Maiden at work (Image by Sam Mino from Pixabay)UPDATE January 20, 2025 as the latest bone chlling Polar Vortex continues to apparently pummel Global Warming with single digit temperatures and snow falling even in Southern states. Thankfully, Sunny Scottsdale Arizona remains unscathed with pitchers and catchers reporting to their Spring Training camps in a little over 3 weeks.Update for January 20, 2025January 17, 2025: US Weather agencies report that the US will be the recipients of brutal life threatening cold on Sunday and into next week with yet another Polar Vortex hammering Global Warming again. What are you Gonna Do? ......Move to Sunny Phoenix Arizona metro and Scottsdale and stick around for Spring Training in Febru...
Comments 3
By Chuck Carstensen, Minnesota/Wisconsin Real Estate Expert
(RE/MAX Results)
Welcome to the Real Estate Life Show where we update you more frequently on What's Happening In Minnesota Real Estate with quick real estate tips, updates, and more!   2025 Real Estate Life #6- #75Hard 2nd Update     2025 Real Estate Life #7- Buyer Showings Since August     2025 Real Estate Life #8- People Do Move In The Winter     2025 Real Estate Life #9- Things Buyers And Sellers Sometimes Forget To Do     2025 Real Estate Life #10-  #75 Hard Update #3    You can catch up on prior real estate updates and Real Estate Life 2025 recordings by clicking here! Please feel free to reach out with any of your real estate questions or concerns. We strive to be the best real estate team in the area and would be happy to assist you with your real estate needs. Chuck Carstensen Re/Max Results 612...
Comments 1
A perfect vacation involves chilling at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula. In other words, the perfect vacation is in Cabo San Lucas, a dream destination known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and top-notch hotels. Cabo has all-inclusive hotels to suit every kind of vacation and every kind of traveler.Let's explore some of the best all-inclusive Cabo San Lucas hotels, each promising fun and relaxation.1. Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa ResortPredio, Paraíso Escondido Supermanzana Quivira, Paraiso Escondido, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., MexicoNestled against the magnificent backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica Golf & Spa Resort is a serene and upscale all-inclusive retreat. It has a stunning golf course, a private beach, and a variety o...
Comments 1
Planning a trip to Bullhead City, Arizona, whether for leisure or business, brings with it the excitement of exploring new environments and experiences. However, the choice of accommodation can greatly influence your stay, turning an ordinary visit into a memorable adventure. Bullhead City, nestled along the vibrant Colorado River, offers a variety of hotels catering to different tastes and budgets. In this comprehensive guide, we'll help you navigate through the options to find the perfect Bullhead City hotel that suits your needs, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.Factors to Evaluate When Selecting a Hotel in Bullhead CityConvenience of LocationChoosing a hotel in Bullhead City that best suits your itinerary is crucial. A strategically located hotel can save you time and tran...
Comments 1
Nestled in the heart of Southern California, San Clemente Pier stands as a beacon of coastal charm and historical significance. This iconic pier, stretching majestically into the Pacific Ocean, offers more than just beautiful ocean views and sandy beaches. It is a vibrant community gathering place, rich in history and bustling with activities ranging from surfing to sunset watching. Whether you're a history buff, a surfing enthusiast, or simply in search of a picturesque sunset, San Clemente Pier promises a diverse array of attractions to explore. Join us as we delve into the unique aspects of San Clemente Pier, making it a must-visit destination on your Southern California travel list.Unveiling the History of San Clemente PierThe story of San Clemente Pier is a tale of resilience and c...
Comments 1
By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Nestled in Missouri, the Lake of the Ozarks is a beacon for travelers seeking both tranquility and adventure along its vast shoreline. This area is famous for its stunning scenery and variety of recreational options, provides a perfect mix of leisure and adventure, creating an ideal destination for a lakeside vacation. This blog will guide you through the best accommodations the area has to offer, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable. From luxurious resorts to family-friendly lodges, we’ve curated a list of the top Lake of the Ozarks hotels that promise to enhance your visit with their exceptional amenities and superior service.Why Choose Lake of the Ozarks for Your Stay?The Lake of the Ozarks isn't just another vacation destination; it's a landscape of opportunities ...
Comments 1
By inboundREM Market Updates
(InboundREM)
Taking care of yourself starts with the food you consume, and there's no better way to prioritize your health than by selecting fresh, farm-to-table produce. This year, focus on making the best version of yourself by starting with a healthier body. For Springfield residents, the best place to get the freshest seasonal produce is in the Greater Springfield Farmers Market. Here’s to making healthier options this 2025!A Brief History of the Greater Springfield Farmers MarketFounded in 1979, the Greater Springfield Farmers Market has been a cornerstone of the local community for nearly five decades. Greater Springfield Farmers Market was created with a simple yet impactful mission: to provide Springfield residents access to fresh, locally grown produce while supporting regional farmers and ...
Comments 1