First Blog Posts

Sometimes, it can be scary to write your first blog post! Luckily, the supportive community of ActiveRain is just the place to start.

On this page you will find a running list of “first blog posts” written on ActiveRain by members of the real estate industry. These new bloggers have taken the leap to begin their blogging journey. Our first-time real estate bloggers deserve a big welcome and some extra encouragement from you!

Take a read, leave a comment, and say hello. You'll make that author’s day and help to give them a great first impression of our community.

Agent's first blog posts on ActiveRain

By Matt Erickson
(Peterson Homes)
In the state of Utah, you should keep records for 3 years.  Did you know that you should also be keeping records of offers that were not accepted and for deals that fell through?  That's right.  Real estate agents can be audited for records on deals that did not work out.  Authorities might have need to inspect these kinds of records when investigating bad actors that you might have had dealings with in the past. Digital record keeping is often an efficient way to maintain a large volume of these kinds of records.
Comments 8
By Bold Reliance Funding, LLC, A Partner You Can Rely on for All Your REI Strateg
CONTRACTORS / INVESTORS / REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS… We have the money needed for fix and flips or rental properties and Refi’s.  As a nationwide private money lender, we are dedicated to client success.  We strive to make the lending process simple and profitable, and will always work to secure the best rates/terms possible through our network of investors and private lenders. Quick closings, competitive rates and terms, short-term interest only (fix and flip), or long term for buy and hold (rentals) and up to 100% financing on purchase, rehab and closing costs.  USA Investment properties only (non-owner occupied). We want to be a partner you can rely on for all your REI strategies and believe that the real estate business is based on relationships.  When you succeed, we all win!  Let’...
Comments 0
By Alicia Christensen, Soon to be Utah Real Estate Agent
(Personal)
In the Real Estate world, people put their trust in you with the biggest purchases of their lives.  You handle sensitive information, you hold the keys to their home, and you help them make decisions that can impact them their whole life.  So, as Agents and Brokers we need to represent ourselves as professionals ALL the time.I am in the pre-license phase of my Real Estate journey and as part of my assignment I was asked to write a blog.  Today, I was researching the types of disciplinary actions are taken when an agent or broker is doing something unethical.  The results surprise me.  I looked up a common last name which pulled up 21 results.  Out of the 21 results 3 were fined for not including their brokerage in their social media advertisement, 1 individual was conducting Real Estate...
Comments 3
By Lance Sheridan
(Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate / Lifestyles Realty)
Ever dreamt of a place you can call your own? A dreamy abode where the walls listen to your story, the ceiling shelters your dreams, and the floor grounds your reality? Well, folks, welcome to the world of Home Ownership! With home ownership, you're not just buying a house; you're investing in a lifetime membership to the "I've Got My Own Space" club. You'll have freedom to paint the kitchen that peculiar shade of avocado green you adore, hang your Star Wars memorabilia collection without anyone raising an eyebrow, or install that luxurious rain shower you've always dreamt of. It's your castle, your rules! But it's not just about aesthetic pleasure. Oh no, we're talking about serious financial perks too. Think of your home as a ginormous piggy bank. As you pay off your mortgage, you're ...
Comments 0
    For my 120 hours I need to earn to get my license I need to talk about one of the 21 ways to lose your license. I picked dishonesty because I think it is one of the worst ways to lose your license. When you aren't honest you lose trust from your past, present, and future clients. Buying or selling a house or property requires a lot of trust, and after one person lies to you it is hard to trust another. Lying can affect so many people in this situation and it will ruin your reputation as a realtor. It is best to always tell the truth no matter the circumstances so none of he parties included get affected by the lie.     I guarantee that most can agree that trust is so important in this line of work from every person involved. To be a great realtor you need to have everyone's in order...
Comments 7
By Zetria Okudjeto, Commercial Sales and Leasing Agent RENE certified
(Elite Realty Alliance)
Wells Fargo announced a new campus in Irving expected to create 650 new jobs and $455 million in capital investment. A Texas Enterprise Fund grant of more than $5 million was extended to the company.https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-announces-new-wells-fargo-bank-campus-in-irving
Comments 1
By Cristina Nguyen, Real Estate Professional
(1 Connect Realty)
4620 Holt St. Bellaire, Tx 77401 MLS#66915981Experience this custom-built luxury home featuring a showcase grand foyer w/ sweeping curved staircase, exquisite custom millwork, stunning marble & rich hardwood flooring, butler’s wine room, chandeliers, art niches, & large windows that naturally light up the open-concept space. Spacious living area seamlessly flows into a gourmet kitchen equipped w/ Thermador appliances, walk-in pantry, granite countertops, & 2 generous entertaining islands. Enjoy the decked out patio kitchen & backyard space that offers room for a pool, gardening, pets & relaxation. Indulge in the owner's retreat featuring a double sided fireplace, walk-in closet, ensuite bath w/ dual vanity, vessel tub & walk-in shower. Upstairs, awaits a home office with 2 beautiful Jul...
Comments 6
By Osagumwenro Agho, Student
(Agent Professor)
Being a new Real Estate Agent can come with many challenges, including financial ones. It's essential to have a plan in place to avoid common money problems. By setting and sticking to a budget, keeping track of expenses, and seeking financial advice when necessary, new agents can position themselves for long-term success. Additionally, taking advantage of education and training opportunities can help build a strong foundation for a successful real estate career. After establishing a budget, keeping track of expenses, and seeking out financial advice when needed, new real estate agents should focus on building a solid network to expand their client base. One effective way to achieve this is by attending networking events and joining local real estate associations. These opportunities ca...
Comments 4
By Jason Mathis, Certified Tax Representation Consultant
(Mathis Tax Service)
Are you struggling to keep up with your tax payments, especially when finances are tight? Ignoring your tax debt is not the answer. Instead, taking action and getting into tax compliance should be your top priority. The good news is that the IRS is usually willing to work with taxpayers to resolve their tax debts. However, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of the collection alternatives available to you. In this blog post, we'll discuss what to do when you can't pay your taxes and how to resolve your tax debt. Tax Compliance: The First Step to Resolving Your Tax DebtThe initial step in addressing your tax issue is to get into "tax compliance." This means filing all tax returns due for the last six years and making your current tax payments. Once you're in tax compliance, you ca...
Comments 4
By Garrett Puckett, VA Loan Lender
(Security America Mortgage)
Buying a house in Texas for Veterans and active-duty servicemen and servicewomen generally follows a similar sequence of steps as in other states. Throughout this blog when we use the word Veteran it will be representative of both retired Military Veterans, active duty service members, and reserves.  Here are the key steps in the home-buying process for Veterans utilizing their Texasd VA loan benefit: First determine your budget with a va loan calculator, affordability calculator and/or basic allowance for housing calculator: Determine how much house you can afford and get pre-approved by local Texas mortgage lenders like Security America Mortgage. A mortgage pre-approval starts by completing a loan application.  They also offer several calculators to help you in the home-buying process...
Comments 5
By Jacqueline Rodriguez, Dream Homes by Jacqueline
(Exit Platinum Realty )
Buying a home can be one of the most exciting and significant decisions you'll ever make. It's a long-term investment that requires careful consideration and planning. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or have been through the process before, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the home buying process. Determine your budget The first step in buying a home is to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your search and ensure that you're looking at homes that are within your price range. Take into consideration your income, expenses, and any other financial obligations you may have. Get pre-approved for a mortgage Once you have a budget in mind, the next step is to get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you an idea of how much money you can borrow an...
Comments 3
By Joel Richardson, Home Reno Loan "Go-To", MBA +20 yr of experience
(PrimeLending)
 Home renovation can be a great way to add value to your home and make it more comfortable and enjoyable.  There are many different types of renovations that you can do, from minor cosmetic improvements to significant structural changes. Before you get started, it's essential to do some research and create a detailed plan.  This can help you save time, money, and energy in the long run. Working with experienced professionals who can help you make the most of your renovation is also essential. You can open the door to a beautiful new home with the proper knowledge and resources. Assess Your Needs and ResourcesAccording to the article, Craig Webb, editor-in-chief of Remodeling and ProSales magazine, advises: ask yourself what is essential in your ideal home. As an investment, one needs to...
Comments 5
By Nitesha Armstrong
One of the most common ways to lose your license in real estate is mishandling funds. It's one of the most important fiduciary duties of an agent and broker, yet I have read so many articles in the licensing and disciplinary actions section related to money problems in real estate.Money Problems:Failing, within a reasonable time, to account for or to remit money that belongs to another and comes into the person's possession.Commingling money with the person's own money.Diverting money from the purpose for which the money is received.Here are some articles that I came across while learning about the grounds for disciplinary actions.https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/real-estate-agentbroker-sentenced-year-prison-embezzling-over-100000-clients-moneyThe above article is about an agent / bro...
Comments 5
MyEListing, With Help from Coinbase Commerce, Creates the World's First Place to Buy and Sell US Real Estate With Crypto MyEListing integrates with Coinbase Commerce to create ASAP ProgramAUSTIN, Texas, April 20, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- MyEListing.com, a free commercial real estate listings and data platform, has partnered with Millennial Title, and Championship Title to create a marketplace where anyone in the world can buy and sell US residential & commercial real estate with crypto via an integration with Coinbase Commerce, and close within one business day.   MyEListing integrates with Coinbase Commerce to create ASAP Program The initiative is called the ASAP (Accelerated Sale And Purchase) program. MyEListing.com hosts the marketplace, Coinbase Commerce converts the buyers' crypto int...
Comments 2
By Karena Jolley, A Partnership Working for You
(RE/MAX Gold Selzer Realty & Associates)
country home less than 30min to Ukiah OverviewMapsPhotosFeaturesDescriptionNeighborhoodMarket Stats $449,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms2 Full Bathrooms1 UnitInterior: 1,300 sqftLot: 0.32 acre(s)Year Built: 1979MLS #: 322103223 Location 14501 Powerhouse RoadPotter Valley, CA 95469USA Karena Jolley Kelsi Ryan Coldwell Banker Mendo Realty(707) 354-2999mendorealestate@gmail.comhttps://www.mendohomes.com   Listed by: Coldwell Banker Mendo Realty Our recent listings Craftsman charm in Ukiah | $369,000 | Ukiah, CA2 parcels with amazing Clearlake views | $99,900 | Lucerne, CALand with potential to build! | $149,000 | Willits, CAGorgeous views and private acreage | $550,000 | Willits, CAFlat and buildable lot in Ukiah Westside Area | $115,000 | Ukiah, CA Subscribe to our listin...
Comments 3
By Stefany Tedesco
(observer)
 Let's discuss one of the most serious reasons for losing a license: dishonesty. The worst way to lose your license, in my opinion, is dishonesty, despite what some people may claim. Finding the ideal home for the buyer and ensuring the seller receives the greatest bargain are both essential components of being an honest real estate agent. Being honest is a vital component of the job of a realtor or real estate agent. Many individuals are directly impacted by your work, and even a small falsehood could have a significant impact on a large number of people. Being a real estate agent is not only about representing the buyer or the seller and the transaction, it is also about representing your fellow agents and your broker. In my view, honesty is one of the most crucial qualities for a rea...
Comments 3
By Gray Marino, Maui Referral Agent offers 50% referral
(REAL Brokerage, LLC)
Are you asking yourself, "Should I move to Maui?". Let me help you in your decision.Maui should be at the top of your list. Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island and is known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and laid-back lifestyle. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider making Maui your new home. Beautiful Weather: Maui has a warm and tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s year-round. The island also receives plenty of sunshine, making it the perfect place for outdoor activities like hiking, surfing, and snorkeling. Incredible Natural Beauty: Maui is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Kaanapali Beach, Wailea Beach, and Napili Bay. The island is also home to Haleakala National Park, which fe...
Comments 3
By Kimberly Bauman, P.A., www.TrueSouthCoastalHomes.com
(Amerivest Realty)
Looking for a luxurious waterfront Destin Condo that offers stunning views and exclusive access to a boat slip? Look no further than this corner unit in the highly coveted 'D' stack of the Destin Harbor Resort. With deeded beach access and the opportunity to rent a second boat slip, this condo is the ultimate dream for boating enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.Enjoy breathtaking views of the Destin Harbor, Crab Island, and the East Pass from the comfort of your private balcony and living room. This 1550 sq ft condo offers 1300 sq ft under AC and boasts several interior updates, including LVP flooring, Trane AC, custom closets, granite counters, new cabinets in the kitchen and bathrooms, a soaking tub, a custom coffee bar, and much more.In addition to the interior updates, this condo al...
Comments 2
By Jennifer Gager, ABR, SFR, SMP, Helping you Home
(JLA Realty)
Harris County is located in the southeastern part of Texas and is home to the city of Houston, one of the largest cities in the United States. This area is known for its diverse cultures, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife. In this blog post, we will explore some of the best things to do in Harris County, Houston Texas. 1. Visit the Space Center Houston The Space Center Houston is a must-visit attraction for anyone who is interested in space exploration. This center is home to NASA's Mission Control and provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the space program. You can take a tram tour, see real spacecraft, and even touch a moon rock! 2. Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested...
Comments 14
By chayton crosby
(Industry observer)
False advertising is good! Right? Well... not if you want to lose your license.False advertising in real estate can occur when a real estate agent or broker makes false or misleading statements about a property or its features in order to persuade potential buyers to make a purchase. This type of dishonest behavior can cause significant harm to buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals alike.Real estate agents may also engage in false advertising by making promises that they cannot keep. For example, an agent might claim that a property will appreciate in value significantly over a short period of time or guarantee that a buyer will be able to resell a property at a profit. These types of claims can be difficult to substantiate and can ultimately result in disappointment and financ...
Comments 18