Recent Blog Posts

The amazing members of ActiveRain produce hundreds of blog posts every single day of the year.  There is a wonderful mix of all things real estate and beyond for your reading pleasure.

This board rolls all day long with the newest blog posts to our site. You’ll find some diamonds in the rough on this page, so check back often to peruse the blog roll and learn from our committed community of real estate professionals.

The newest blog posts on ActiveRain

On July 8, 2025, Julie Taylor published a very good helpful interesting report on Realtor.com about the list of mistakes sellers need to avoid during house tours.1. Why sellers are staying home during showings,2. How much does it actually matter?3. How buyers can make the best of an awkward showing,Perhaps there might be other helpful tips on the list of mistakes sellers need to avoid during house tours.For complete more detailed information about Julie Taylor’s report for the list of mistakes sellers need to avoid during house tours, please click HERE
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
 the median list price for Chandler, AZ is $599,000 with the market action index hovering around 38. This is less than last month's market action index of 39. Inventory has held steady at or around 721.  The market has started cooling and prices have been flat for several weeks. Since we’re in the Seller’s zone, watch for changes in MAI. If the MAI resumes its climb, prices will likely follow suit. If the MAI drops consistently or falls into the Buyer’s zone, watch for downward pressure on prices.  The market is hovering around this plateau. Look for a persistent change in the Market Action Index before we see prices deviate from these levels.   YOUR   Latest activity in the VALLEY of the SUNFor ALL your Valley AZ Real Estate NeedsPHONE   Bill   at   602-999-0952Text          Bill   at ...
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By Linda Blumenthal, NYS Licenced Real Estate Salesperson, CBR- Retired
July 12th Puzzle - National Pecan Pie Day:Enjoy your day!Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To Play
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By GilbertRealtor BillSalvatore, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
Unveiling the Masterminds Behind Legendary Frauds    Introduction    History is filled with tales of deception, where clever individuals managed to outsmart many for personal gain. From Ponzi schemes to counterfeit art, frauds have shaped societies and cultures in their wake. Understanding these scams not only entertains but also provides insight into human psychology.    This article delves into some of history's greatest frauds, showcasing how these schemes worked and what lessons can be drawn from them. Get ready to journey through time and uncover the art of deception!   What Is Deception?    At its core, deception is any act meant to mislead. Think about it: whether for financial gain, social status, or mere entertainment, fraud can take many shapes. It plays on trust and can turn...
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By Jim Newcomb
(Windermere Real Estate)
Positioned on a quiet cul-de-sac street, this light-filled mountain getaway offers the perfect mix of charm, comfort, and possibility. With an open floor plan and windows that welcome in the sunshine, the home feels bright, breezy, and relaxing. Step outside to fully landscaped grounds where apricot and apple trees grow, and spacious Trex decks invite you to slow down, breathe deep, and take in the fresh mountain air. Whether you're enjoying your morning coffee or winding down with a glass of wine under the stars, this is your spot to reconnect with nature. Experience year-round adventure, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the warmer months. As a Green Valley Lake property owner, you'll benefit from full access to exclusive amenities including b...
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By Jim Newcomb
(Windermere Real Estate)
Experience the ultimate in mountain living with this stunning, remodeled Lake Arrowhead home. Designed with quality craftsmanship and a sophisticated aesthetic, this lodge-style retreat blends luxury, comfort, and breathtaking surroundings.This five-bedroom, four-bath home includes a grand bunk room, comes fully furnished, and offers coveted lake rights. The level entry leads to an oversized two-car garage and spacious driveway. Inside, soaring vaulted ceilings and an open-concept great room feature a river rock fireplace, chef’s kitchen, and dining area with seating for ten. A large Trex deck extends the living space outdoors.The main level includes a bedroom with deck access and a full bath. Downstairs, two family rooms, a luxurious primary suite with a fireplace, and additional bedro...
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By Wayne Martin, Real Estate Broker - Retired
(Wayne M Martin)
Patricia Feager and Lew Corcoran have volunteered to host the July challenge on how things may have changed over the years. This is my second entry for the month of July.  Among my bad traits when I was younger, and still present from time to time these days, is a lack of patience. And my everything must happen now attitude left me with the wrong answer or most times not with the best answer to solve a problem. I was very reactive. The years move on and I gain some experience in the business world. I learn to ask questions, although not as many as I should have in the early days. Admittedly, I revert from time to time to that behavior from time to time these days.As reaction turned to more of ask many questions and reflect a bit before you act I found my problem solving abilities improv...
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By John Martino
(lookSmart Home Inspections, LLC)
One of the most common electrical issues I report during NJ home inspections is the absence or improper installation of GFCI outlets. Most people have heard of GFCIs, but not everyone understands what they do or where they should be installed. Some assume they are just “modern code” and optional in older homes. Others think as long as there is one near the kitchen sink, everything is fine. That is not always the case.Let me explain what you really need to know.What Is a GFCI Outlet?GFCI stands for Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. It is a special type of electrical outlet that shuts off power when it detects even a small amount of current leaking to the ground. That kind of leakage can happen if you are using an appliance and accidentally come into contact with water or a faulty connect...
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By Roy Kelley
(Retired)
WSSC Water Bill Assistance ProgramWSSC Water’s popular Get Current temporary water bill assistance program has been extended and enhanced. Unanimously approved by the WSSC Water Commissioners, the extension and enhancement of Get Current 2.0 began July 1 and runs through October 31, 2025. The assistance program helps eligible customers with a delinquent balance as of June 1, 2025, by offering forgiveness of a portion of their balance and waiving 100% of late payment charges and turn-on fees.Click here to visit the website.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Lily in the rain, Kentlands Photowalk, Gaithersburg, MD USA IMG 4506Canon PowerShot G11 Camera, f/4.5, 1/160 sec., ISO-500, 30 mm, No FlashPhotograph by Roy KelleyRoy and Dolores Kelley Photographs
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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)
 The neighborhood of Copperleaf is located in Southeast Aurora, South off Quincy between Picadilly Street and Copperleaf Blvd in Aurora CO  80015.    Richmond Homes began building homes back in 2005 and Lennar, DR Horton, and KB Homes all have homes built in this neighborhood.   There are now not only single-family homes but townhomes also.    The neighborhood of Copperleaf offers a relaxing lifestyle with unique parks, trails, and open spaces.   The Arboretum is located on four full acres and offers, a lap pool, a splash garden for the younger kids, Overlook Terrace for a shaded area, Pool House equipped with changing rooms, showers, and a first aid station.    The clubhouse features an indoor/outdoor fireplace and a lavish entertaining area for birthdays, anniversaries, or special eve...
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By Jeff Dowler, CRS, The Southern California Relocation Dude
(eXp Realty of California, Inc.)
What's the Value of My San Marcos Home? San Marcos Home Sales for June 2025 The San Marcos real estate market continues to shift. This report does not include private sales, mobile homes or multi-family housing. The data were found in the MLS and are believed to be accurate at the time this report was created but are not guaranteed. Buyers and sellers need to have current information about local housing market conditions in order to make educated buying and/or selling decisions about San Marcos Homes for Sale. READ MORE:San Marcos - A Thriving Inland Residential CommunitySan Elijo Hills – Award-Winning Master Planned Community in San MarcosLake San Marcos – Resort and Residential Community in San Marcos, CA 63 homes sold in June in San Marcos’s 2 zip codes (92069 and 92078), a 15% decre...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
🏡 From Fixer-Upper to Fabulous: The Troutman 203k Renovation StoryIn the quiet charm of Troutman, North Carolina, where the coffee is strong and the porches are even stronger (some literally holding on by a nail), the Johnson family found a diamond in the rough.Okay, more like a dusty lump of coal with “good bones” and a 1970s color scheme that made your retinas cry.But thanks to the power of the FHA 203k Renovation Loan—and a little help from the folks at 203konline.com—they turned their potential money pit into a picture-perfect home.🔧 Meet the Heroes: The Mike Young TeamWhen the Johnsons called the MY 203k Team – Troutman, they were half-excited, half-terrified, and 100% overwhelmed. Mike and his crew answered with calm confidence and a battle plan:“You’re not just buying a house—you...
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By Jon Karlen, Louisville Kentucky real estate - Metro Area
(Finish Line Realty - Louisville Ky Real Estate - Metropolitan Service Area)
As both a real estate agent and a mechanical engineer (a rare and slightly eccentric breed), I’ve learned that selling a home is remarkably like designing a well-oiled machine—except this machine is a place to celebrate holidays with friends and family, hosts birthday parties, and wraps you in quiet comfort as the rain drums softly outside.This is by no means an all inclusive list...but here are 5 Things I think a proper Real Estate marketing plan should have:  1)  A Story, more than a Spec Sheet    Buyers may want "the numbers" with all of the specs on a home — but they really want to know how they are going to live in the home...how the morning light falls on the kitchen tiles and where the cat likes to nap.  Create that vision in your marketing. 2)   Photos That Breathe    Not just s...
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By Mike Young, FHA 203k Consultant 916-758-1809 cell direct
(203kOnLine.com, covering the USA)
Has anyone else had issues with deliveries from Bosch appliances I have been dealing with these people since April 23rd 2025. I purchased from Lowe's Hickory. I have the dishwasher, refrigerator, range hood, but no range. My issue is that I keep getting things scheduled for delivery and the day before it is supposed to be here I get an email saying "you have a new delivery date". The forth time this happened, it was supposed to be installed today between 1 and 5 pm. Today is Saturday, the 12th, On Thursday I get a notification it will be installed some time Saturday, then Friday, I get a notification it will be installed between 1 and 5 pm. Saturday, I check my email at 10:30 am after moving everything out of their way, to find a new email that states "your new delivery date is 7/23".  ...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Lissen LearnedNo matter where Lissen went, he enjoyed engaging people. Whether at the local grocery store, the cleaners, his favorite barber or the repair garage.Through the years, he became a successful real estate agent, possessing the ability to set everyone at ease by focusing on being an excellent, active listener. He'd go quiet, allowing clients to express their deepest wishes when buying or selling, rather than inserting unsolicited opinions.People referred his services far and wide to friends and family members for 20+ years. One day, while discussing inclusions and upgrades on a new build job, he missed an extremely important detail, the buyer expressly stated NO CARPET whatsoever. She was adament, repeating it several times to Lissen.Meeting later in the design center to choos...
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By Lew Corcoran, Expert guidance. Exceptional results.
(Better Living Real Estate, LLC)
Unveiling the Masterminds Behind Legendary Frauds  Introduction  History is filled with tales of deception, where clever individuals managed to outsmart many for personal gain. From Ponzi schemes to counterfeit art, frauds have shaped societies and cultures in their wake. Understanding these scams not only entertains but also provides insight into human psychology.  This article delves into some of history's greatest frauds, showcasing how these schemes worked and what lessons can be drawn from them. Get ready to journey through time and uncover the art of deception! What Is Deception?  At its core, deception is any act meant to mislead. Think about it: whether for financial gain, social status, or mere entertainment, fraud can take many shapes. It plays on trust and can turn even the m...
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By Peter Mohylsky, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
Buying a home on your own might feel overwhelming—but with the right game plan, it’s totally doable!💪From budgeting to loan options, there are plenty of tools and resources designed to support solo buyers. You don’t have to figure it all out alone—I’m here to help every step of the way.Ready to start your journey to homeownership? Let’s connect and make a plan!#thehelpfulagent #home #houseexpert #house #listreports #househunting #newhome #a070725 #investment #realestate #realtor #realestateagent #happyhomeowners #dreamhome
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Montgomery County Career and Resource FairWorkSource Montgomery will host its next Career and Resource Fair for Federal Workers and Job Seekers from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Wednesday, July 16, at the Silver Spring Civic Center. This quarterly event brings employers and employees of all industries together and will also feature support and resources for recently laid-off federal workers and contractors. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register online as soon as possible. The Silver Spring Civic Building is located at 1 Veterans Plaza in Silver Spring.Click here to register online.This is a Montgomery County, Maryland announcement. Dahlia, Hollyhill Bridget, National Capital Dahlia Society Show, Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, Maryland USA IMG 3141Canon PowerShot G11 CameraPhotog...
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By Susan Isaacs, Real Estate Strategist, Washington DC | N Virginia Top Agent
(Compass)
When the One Big Beautiful Bill Tax Act (OBBB) passed, some touted its homebuyer benefits along with tax relief and economic revival. That was misleading. The truth is that the bill includes zero relief for today's home buyers and sellers. Only perks for developers and investors tie directly to the bill--along with tax advantages for the wealthy.Direct perks for developers and investors that aren't a direct benefit to home buyers and sellers: Permanent Extension of 100% Bonus Depreciation: Allows businesses, including developers, to deduct the entire cost of certain assets in the year they're placed in service Expansion of Qualified Opportunity Zones (QOZs): Makes permanent the program offering investors tax deferrals and potential capital gains exclusions for investing in designated lo...
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By Charles Stallions, 850-476-4494 - Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl.
(Charles Stallions Real Estate Services )
Search MLS  For Your Next HomeWe would love to show it to youIs That Fixer-Upper House Worth It? Buying a fixer-upper home can be a gamble; here are ways to come out on top.How Much Home Do I Qualify For Purchasing a fixer-upper home — one needing some TLC — could mean scoring a home at a significant discount, renovating it into your dream home, and possibly even doubling its value, or more.As home costs soar, fixer-upper homes appear to be gaining appeal. A consumer survey from RE/MAX found that 56% of 1,000 prospective home buyers would consider purchasing a fixer-upper in need of remodeling if it meant getting a lower price. And it didn’t matter whether the remodeling was cosmetic or structural.Potential savings are only one aspect of buying a fixer-upper home, though. You'll want to...
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