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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 Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Christopher Nelson came up with great information on Home Curb appeal for the winter. Curb Appeal in Winter: Enhance Your Home's Look Now   Key Highlights Boost your home's curb appeal in the winter months to attract potential buyers and enhance its value. Create a welcoming and safe environment by clearing snow and ice, adding warm outdoor lighting, and incorporating winter-resilient greenery. Enhance your home's exterior with a fresh coat of paint on the front door, updated house numbers, and tasteful holiday decorations. Consider adding winter-friendly plants to planters and attracting feathered friends with a well-placed bird feeder to liven up your front yard. Embrace the charm of winter and showcase your home's best features during the colder months.   As winter months come close,...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
When thinking of home theft, most people envision burglars breaking into their houses. However, one of the most dangerous types of fraud that can affect homeowners is home title theft. This kind of crime may not be as obvious, but it can cause significant financial and legal issues. Understanding how it happens and taking the necessary steps toward home title security can help you protect your home.What Is Home Title Theft?Home title theft occurs when a criminal uses your personal details to forge documents and illegally claim ownership of your property. The thief might sell, rent, or even mortgage the house without your knowledge, all while you remain unaware of the crime. Vacation homes or unoccupied properties are often targeted by criminals because they are less likely to be closely...
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By Steve Depoe, Taking the stress out of Buying and Selling
(The Rose Realty Team)
 With the holidays right around the corner, homeowners planning to move have a decision to make: sell now or wait? Some may even consider taking their house off the market until next spring. But is that the best choice? Because at this time of year, your home can really stand out.Here's the thing: there are plenty of buyers out there who want to be in a new home by the holidays, and your house might be just what they’re looking for. As an article from Redfin says: “. . . there is typically less inventory in the housing market this time of year, allowing your home to easily stand out among the available inventory. And though there are technically fewer buyers overall, the homebuyers that are looking are far more serious about finding a home within a specific timeframe. . . selling your h...
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On November 27, 2024, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that nationwide pending contract signed home sales higher 2.0% to an index of 77.4 in October of 2024 from September of 2024, and increased 5.4% from October of 2023.Pending home sales index in the Northeast grew 4.7% to an index of 68.7 in October of 2024 from September 2024, and rose 7.2% from October of 2023.Pending home sales index in the Midwest up 4.0% to an index of 73.8 in October of 2024 from September 2024, and gained 1.8% from October of 2023.Pending home sales index in the South up 0.9% to an index of 90.0 in October of 2024 from September 2024, and increased 2.5% from October of 2023.Pending home sales index in the West higher 0.2% to an index of 64.1 in October of 2024 from September 2024, and jumped 16...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
White ceiling fans are a timeless and versatile addition to any room. Their clean, neutral color complements a wide range of décor styles, from traditional to modern. Whether you’re aiming for a bright, airy feel or a more understated, minimalist aesthetic, white ceiling fans can elevate the design of your space. Here’s how white ceiling fans can enhance your home’s aesthetic.1. Clean and Bright LookWhite ceiling fans are synonymous with a clean, fresh, and bright aesthetic. Their neutral color reflects light, which can help brighten up a room. This makes them ideal for spaces that need a little extra light or where you want to maintain a sense of openness. White fans are especially beneficial in smaller or dark rooms, where they can contribute to a more expansive, airy feeling.2. Versa...
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By Alan May, Home again, home again...
(Jameson Sotheby's International Realty)
This is the time of year when we tend to think about those things for which we're grateful.I have a lot to be grateful for.  As my wonderful late father-in-law used to say: "any day above ground is a good day", and in spite of many of my youthful decisions, I still find myself above ground.I still have my health - coff, coff -, my family is good (and in town for the holiday), we are supping together this evening, along with the grands (I ain't mad about that).  Business is good, friends are good.And last, but truly not least, I have my Active Rain family and friends.  AR has proven to be a wonderful retreat for me over the years.  A place to occasionally vent my spleen, to share a story or two, or just relax and read some stories from fellow real estate travellers.  Those who have not s...
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On November 26, 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide new single family home sales dropped 17.3% to an annual rate of 610,000 homes in October of 2024 from 738,000 homes in September of 2024, and fell 9.4% from in October of 2023 an annual rate of 673,000 homes.The median new home sold value was $437,300, while the average sales price was $545,800 in October of 2024.There were estimated 481,000 new houses for sale, and 9.5 months supplies of available inventory at the end of October of 2024.For complete more detailed information about HUD and U.S. Census Bureau report of new home sales October of 2024, please click HERE
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Why SEO Matters for Real Estate ProfessionalsIn today’s digital landscape, most property searches begin online, making a strong search engine presence essential for real estate success. Optimized listings help agents and brokers reach their target audience while providing a seamless user experience. Strategic enhancements, such as keyword-rich descriptions and mobile-friendly designs, are now pivotal in capturing buyer interest.Crafting Captivating and Optimized ListingsEffective property descriptions are more than just words—they are a bridge between potential buyers and their future homes. Highlighting unique features like eco-friendly amenities, nearby parks, or proximity to reputable schools can make a listing more appealing.To stand out in search results, listings should integrate ...
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By J. Philip Faranda, Associate Broker / Office Manager
(Howard Hanna Rand Realty)
I am paraphrasing the great Yogi Berra when I say that predicting the future is easy, but getting it right is a bit trickier. Many of my colleagues have offered their prognostications in a market that is the perfect storm of black swans, judicial actions, economic uncertainty, and so many competing interests that there doesn't appear to be any easy fix for the professional challenges we all face. In the face of all that, I am 100% certain that everything I predict will be accurate.Here we go. In 2025, the vast majority of humanity will continue to prefer living indoors to other alternatives. That means that virtually everyone we come into contact with will be worth conveying our value as an advocate when the time comes for them to change their address. The timeframes may be longer betwe...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Businesses are increasingly adopting localized SEO strategies to enhance their visibility in search engine results. For industries such as real estate, where customer proximity is essential, local SEO has become a critical tool for connecting with nearby audiences. By optimizing for location-based searches, businesses can not only attract more foot traffic but also build stronger relationships within their communities.The Role of Local SEO in Enhancing VisibilityLocal SEO focuses on tailoring a business’s online presence to dominate search results within a specific area. This is particularly beneficial for real estate professionals, where buyers and sellers often seek agents or properties close to home. Appearing prominently in these searches can be the difference between securing a new...
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
This Thanksgiving season, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of the past 32 years as a Coldwell Banker Realtor. What stands out most? YOU – my amazing clients.Whether we celebrated finding your dream home, navigated the emotional process of selling a cherished space, or shared the trust you placed in me to guide your journey, your support has been the greatest gift. It’s not just about real estate; it’s about the memories we’ve built together, the stories you’ve shared, and the relationships we’ve formed along the way. Working with people like you is what makes this career so fulfilling. Here’s to the milestones we’ve celebrated and the exciting ones still ahead! Now, let’s share the gratitude: What are you most thankful for this season? Drop a comment below – I’d love t...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
The Phoenix real estate market has been one of the most dynamic and talked-about markets in the U.S. in recent years. Known for its consistent growth, rising home prices, and surging demand, Phoenix has been a hotspot for buyers, sellers, and investors alike.However, as economic conditions fluctuate and housing trends shift, many are now asking: Is the Phoenix real estate market slowing down?To understand this, we need to look at the broader Arizona real estate market, which includes current trends and future predictions. Factors such as the balance between supply and demand, the impact of the NAR settlement on home pricing, and the expected population growth in the state indicate a transition from a seller's to a buyer's market, along with the potential stabilization of home prices in ...
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By The Chris Fritch Team ~ eXp Realty, chrisfritchteam.com 763-746-3997
(Chris Fritch Team eXp Realty)
Now listed at $245,000! This end-unit townhome offers true one-level living with no interior or exterior stairs and features a vaulted open layout! The spacious kitchen offers ample cabinet and counter space, stainless steel appliances, a breakfast bar, and a window that fills the space with plenty of natural light. Enjoy the informal dining area that is nice and open to the kitchen. Enjoy 2 spacious bedrooms with a walk-through full bath! Relax and unwind in the sunroom with large windows and a sliding glass door that opens to a semi-private patio and a generous sized backyard! Updated LPV flooring throughout! The laundry room provides extra storage with cabinets! This home is conveniently located just 0.2 miles from School Knoll Park, which offers a playground, basketball court, tenni...
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By David John Medendorp, CCIM, GRI, Investments, Waterfront Homes, Muskegon
(Medendorp Real Estate Group Muskegon )
With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And one thing you’ll want to be aware of is just how much the number of down payment assistance (DPA) programs has grown lately.Take a look at the graph below to see how many new programs have been added in the last year, according to data from Down Payment Resource:More Programs, More Opportunities for YouSo, what does this increase mean for you? With more programs available, there’s a higher likelihood that one of them could help you reach your homeownership goals.And these programs aren’t small-scale help either – the benefits can go a long way toward covering a chunk of your costs. As Rob Chrane, Founder and CEO of Down Payment Resource, shar...
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On November 21, 2024, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported nationwide regional existing home sales in the Northeast up 2.2% in October of 2024 to an annual rate 470,000 homes from September of 2024, nut unchanged 0.0% from October of 2023. The median price in the Northeast was $472,900 in October 2024, rose 7.6% from October of 2023.Home sales in the Midwest jumped 6.7% in October of 2024 to an annual rate 950,000 homes from September of 2024, and grew 1.1% from October of 2023. The median price in the Midwest was $305,100 in October of 2024, increased 7.2% from October of 2023.Home sales in the South gained 2.9% in October of 2024 to an annual rate 1,77 million homes from September of 2024, and up 2.3% from October of 2023. The median price in the South was $361,200 in Octo...
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On November 21, 2024, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that nationwide existing home sales rose 3.4% to annual rate of 3.96 million homes in October of 2024 from 6.29 homes in September of 2024, and up 2.9% from 3.85 million homes from October of 2023.There were approximately 1.37 million homes supplies of available inventory in October of 2024, higher 0.7% from September of 2024, and jumped 19.1% from 1.15 million homes in October of 2023.There were 4.2 months available inventory in October of 2024 lower from 4.3 months in September of 2024, but grew from 3.6 months from October of 2023.On average it took 29 days to sell a home in October of 2024, grew from 28 days in September of 2024, and increased from 23 days in October 2023.First time buyers acquired 27.0% of homes...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you’re looking to increase your home’s value, there’s a long list of things you can do – including a variety of upgrades and home improvements. But when you scan these lists, it’s clear that a few stand out as providing a much higher ROI than the others. Let’s take a look at some of the top options you have.Create an Outdoor KitchenOne of the most sought-after upgrades today is an outdoor kitchen. With more people focusing on maximizing their outdoor living spaces, this addition has become a must-have for a lot of potential buyers. An outdoor kitchen can transform your backyard into an entertainment “oasis,” complete with grills, sinks, mini-fridges, and countertops for food prep. The key is to invest in quality materials, like stainless steel appliances and weather-resistant counter...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you’re interested in the world of real estate, the first thing you must do is become licensed. Once you meet the requirements and take and pass the licensing test, you can begin to sell houses to happy families, and with hard work, you can make a good living. Many people give up before they start because they fear taking the licensing exam, but with proper research and an understanding of the job, you can pass the test and start building your brand. What To Know Going InBefore hitting the books and taking the time to get your real estate license, it’s vital that you know what you can do with that certification and the other skills you’ll need that aren’t always taught in school. First, know that there are many different jobs that you can perform once you get your license. In addition...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
 Becoming a first-time landlord can be challenging, but avoiding common mistakes makes the journey smoother. Staying organized, seeking professional advice, and treating rental properties as a business are essential to success. With preparation and care, you can avoid pitfalls and thrive as a landlord. Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP Entering the world of property rental as a first-time landlord is both exciting and challenging. While renting out properties can be a lucrative way to generate income, it comes with its fair share of responsibilities and pitfalls. As a landlord, particularly in competitive markets like Los Angeles, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensure long-term success. Let’s explore the most frequent errors that new landlords make and how to...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Entering the world of property rental as a first-time landlord is both exciting and challenging. While renting out properties can be a lucrative way to generate income, it comes with its fair share of responsibilities and pitfalls. As a landlord, particularly in competitive markets like Los Angeles, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensure long-term success. Let’s explore the most frequent errors that new landlords make and how to steer clear of them.Neglecting Market ResearchOne of the first mistakes new landlords make is failing to research the local rental market. Understanding the rental rates, tenant expectations, and the competitive landscape in Los Angeles is critical. Without this knowledge, you risk overpricing or underpricing your property, both of which can lead to finan...
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