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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 Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
Monday, April 5, 1999, was my first day on the job as a California REALTOR®. I began in San Mateo, California, at Cashin Company REALTORS®. I believe my success can be defined three ways;   Pete & Theresa AielloMy first Managing Broker in 1999   Leadership: working under one of the best managing brokers I could have hoped for starting out, Mr. Peter Aiello at Cashin Company Realtors, with whom I still keep in touch. I went on to add to that incredible leadership influence with Liz Piccolomini at One Source Realty & Coldwell Banker, and now at Big Block LPT Realty, Sam Khorramian, Oliver Graf & Cory Rosier!Just some of my wonderful team that help me make it happen every week!My Team: I love my team, they keep my clients safe, keep me sane and they are true professionals and friends; tha...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Is it all about the money or just being comfortable?This is a question most agents ask—but not always out loud.“How many deals should I be doing?”The better question is this:Are your sales supporting your life?It is not about comparing yourself to someone else’s numbers.It is about understanding yourself.1) What do you need monthly? To pay bills, have savings, and go or do something you have always wanted to do.  2) What does your business cost to run? Overhead, but also calculate the hours you work, when you own your business--you have many jobs that come without payment or recognition. Do you need to pay someone to do them?3) What is your average commission per closing?Once you know those numbers, you can answer the real question.Not “Am I busy?”But “Am I profitable?”Some agents close...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Older homes have character, craftsmanship, and charm that newer builds often lack. But they also come with aging components that weren’t designed for modern performance standards. Windows are one of the biggest examples of this.If you’re living in or renovating an older home, replacing outdated windows with modern vinyl options can dramatically improve both comfort and efficiency without sacrificing style.The Problem With Older WindowsMany older homes still have original windows or early replacements that are no longer performing well.Common issues include: Drafts and air leaks Single-pane glass with poor insulation Warped or damaged frames Difficulty opening or closing These problems don’t just affect comfort. They also drive up energy costs and put extra strain on your heating and coo...
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By Kelly McGovern, Working with Kelly is a good move
(Realty Concierge International)
AI can analyze data, draft content, and answer questions quickly, but it can’t live real estate the way a professional does. A great REALTOR® reads the room, senses hesitation, notices the subtle cues during a showing, and understands the emotional weight behind every decision. No algorithm can walk into a home and instantly pick up on the smell of oil heat, the slope in a basement floor, or the tension between buyers trying to stay within budget.Real estate is human. It’s negotiation strategy, local expertise, intuition, and advocacy. It’s knowing when to push, when to pause, and when to protect your client from a bad deal. AI can’t tour a property, build trust face‑to‑face, or navigate the unpredictable personalities involved in a transaction.AI is a tool. A REALTOR® is a partner. And...
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By Sheryl Goldberg, Experienced Real Estate Professional
(Sheryl Goldberg)
ANNUAL LEASE..AVAILABLE May 1, 2026..Beautiful Port Saint Lucie, Florida. PGA VERANO, an all ages community, located in beautiful Port Saint Lucie. If you are looking for a property to rent while your new home is being completed or you are relocating, this house is ready for you! Unfurnished home 2BR+Flex room/2BA with open floor plan on a serene lake, with a screened in Lanai, tile floors through-out the main living area, energy efficient appliances, white cabinets with granite counters,high impact hurricane windows and doors and a two car Epoxy floor garage. Amenities incl: Indoor Lap Pool, 5 Har-Tru Hydro Tennis Courts, 27 Pickle-ball Courts, Resistance Pool, 7000 sq ft E-Gym, bocce, card room, ballroom, demo kitchen, saunas, outdoor resort pool w/cabanas.  Internet, basic cable & la...
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On March 16, 2026 National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for newly built single family homes up one point to 38 points in March of 2026 from 37 points in February of 2026.The HMI component charting buyer traffic higher three points to 25 points, the HMI present sales conditions gained one point to 42 points, and the HMI future sales expectations index grew two points to 49 points in March of 2026.The three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, Northeast unchanged 0 point at 44 points, Midwest head study 0 point at 43 points, South same as 0 point at 35 points, the West declined two points to 31 points in March of 2026.NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz, stated “The administration’s executive orders issued last week to reduce regulatory burde...
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By Sam Thomas, When it's important; hire a professional.
(Providence Group Realty)
Updated April 2026 · Sam Thomas, North Dallas Real EstateI get this question all the time: "Sam, should I wait until spring to list my house?" And my answer is always the same — it depends. But here in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, the data gives us a pretty clear picture. And right now, in April 2026, that data is shifting in real time. Let me break it down so you can stop guessing and start planning.🔍 Ready to explore the DFW market?Browse current listings updated daily — Search DFW Homes HereThe DFW Market in 2026 — What You Need to Know FirstThe days of "list it and they'll come" are behind us. The DFW market has more inventory today than it did two years ago, and buyers have options. That's not a bad thing — it just means strategy matters more than it used to.Here's a quick snapsho...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, Southern Utah's Preferred Real Estate Agent.
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Fresh Brewed Coffee & Closing Docs! At sunrise, that first sip of freshly brewed coffee hits my brain, slowly clearing the fog, bringing focus, making way for the day. Early hours are spent reviewing final, necessary documents, new listing docs, checking emails and texts, making calls. The closing appointment at the title office with clients is set. We meet, paperwork is signed, with smiles all around. An indication that clients are very pleased with their decision. Happy buyers mean sweet success, confirming that I also did my part. Upon walking to my car, the blue skies suddenly seem brighter, warm, sunny rays dance about my skin, a slight breeze tickles my nose with sweet, honeysuckle scents.Other things that make my day as a real estate agent in Southern Utah? The knowing looks of c...
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By Linda Edelwich, Serving Glastonbury & Beyond | 218 New London Trnk
(William Raveis Real Estate)
Many buyers relocating to Hartford County quickly discover that Glastonbury CT consistently ranks among the most desirable towns in the region. With its historic character, strong local economy, and easy access to Hartford, it continues to attract professionals, families, and long-time Connecticut residents looking for a high quality of life.One of the things that makes Glastonbury unique is how different each area of town feels. Some neighborhoods offer walkable access to shops and restaurants near the town center, while others provide larger residential lots, scenic wooded settings, or historic homes near the Connecticut River.Buyers exploring Glastonbury often compare areas such as:• South Glastonbury for historic charm and riverfront farms• Buckingham for quiet residential living an...
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On March 31, 2026, The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced that the U.S. house price up 0.1% in January of 2026 from December of 2025, and gained 1.3% from January of 2025, based on home sales values obtained from mortgages sold to or guaranteed by FNMA and Freddie Mac.Nationwide, among nine census East South Central Divisions was highest with an increase of 1.7%, and West South Central Division was the lowest with a loss of 0.7% in January of 2026 from December of 2025; while the East North Central Division was the highest with a gain of 4.4%, and West South Central Division was the lowest with a loss of 0.8% in January of 2026, from January of 2025.For complete more detailed information about the FHFA’s home price index for January of 2026, please click HERE
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By Bill Exeter, 1031 Exchange and Self-Directed IRA & 401k Expert
(Exeter 1031 Exchange Services, LLC)
A successful 1031 exchange transaction requires careful planning and strict attention to detail. If you plan to complete a forward, reverse, improvement, leasehold improvement, foreign property or zero equity 1031 exchange, you must understand the rules to protect your tax-deferred status.Keep these crucial steps in mind before you start your next transaction: Consult your legal, tax, and financial advisors early in the process. Set up your exchange with a regulated qualified intermediary before closing on any properties. Track IRS timelines closely, including your 45-day identification period, and understand your fund restrictions. Do not leave your tax-deferred exchange up to chance. Read our important notice for exchangors to get the detailed guidance you need for a smooth transactio...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
In today’s market, I am seeing more listings sit—and when they sit too long, they become what we call a stale listing.And once that happens, it gets harder to sell.So What Is a Stale Listing?A stale listing is not just a home that has been on the market for a while.It is a home that has lost buyer attention and momentum.Buyers start to skip it.Agents stop recommending it.And the question becomes: “What’s wrong with it?”Why Do Listings Become Stale?From what I see in our market, it usually comes down to a few things:Price Missed the MarketThis is the biggest one.The first couple of weeks are when your listing gets the most attention.If the price is too high, buyers move on—and they rarely come back.No Showings = No InterestShowings are feedback.If buyers are not walking through the door,...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Outdoor blinds are a great way to create shade, improve privacy, and make your outdoor areas usable year-round. But not all outdoor blinds are built to handle long-term exposure to sun, wind, and rain. Choosing the right materials and design is the difference between a setup that lasts years and one that deteriorates quickly.If you want outdoor blinds that truly hold up over time, here’s what you need to look for.Why Weather Resistance MattersOutdoor blinds are constantly exposed to harsh conditions, especially in Australia where UV levels, coastal air, and strong winds can take a toll.Long-term durability depends on how well your blinds handle: UV exposure and fading Moisture and mould Wind pressure and movement Temperature changes The wrong choice can lead to cracking, warping, or fab...
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By Ann Hayden 636-399-7544, SelectAnn.com
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties-St. Louis Missouri 314-775-2050)
Data Centers in MissouriData centers seem to be a hot topic in our country.  I know in my community there are 2 proposed within 2.5 miles of personal residence.  I have to say these monstrosities are going to wreak havoc on the land.  I live in a rural community.  I live here because it is rural.  I never imagined that a campus of 16 server buildings, plus a guard shack and who knows what else, would even be considered in my area.What does my area have to offer?  Power lines , farmland and water according to the county commissioners and the planning and zoning commission.  All they can talk about are the tax revenues and yet no one can seem to SHOW ME the money or even the plans for the project.  What I really think we offer is a lack of transparency and non-experts.  I think these mult...
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By Michelle Forneris, The Forneris Group
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Southwest Florida is one of the most sought-after regions in the United States for those looking to relocate, invest, or simply enjoy the sunshine lifestyle. With miles of waterways, warm weather year-round, and a thriving economy, the area offers something for everyone. But with so many incredible cities to choose from, how do you know where to plant roots? In this guide, we compare three of the region's most popular destinations — Cape Coral, Fort Myers, and Bonita Springs — breaking down price points, amenities, and lifestyle offerings to help you make the most informed decision possible.Explore all Southwest Florida communities at livingsouthwestflorida.com to start your journey today.Cape Coral: The Waterfront City of CanalsCape Coral is nothing short of extraordinary. With over 40...
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By Kerri Naslund-Monday, Savvy Bay Area CA Real Estate Team Leader
(Keller Williams/ The Monday Team)
I've been leading The Monday Team long enough to know that the values we talk about publicly have to actually show up in how we work. Otherwise it's just marketing copy and everybody can smell that from a mile away.So when we say we help buyers find homes that are values-aligned over flash ... I want to be real about what that means from a team leadership perspective, because I think it's relevant for any agent reading this.It means we have to resist the pull toward the commission-maximizing recommendation.That's harder than it sounds.I had an agent on my team ... newer, sharp, eager ... who was working with a first-time buyer, a single mom in Alameda who had saved for years to get into the market. There was a beautifully renovated property that came up, turnkey, gorgeous, top of her bu...
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By Kerri Naslund-Monday, Savvy Bay Area CA Real Estate Team Leader
(Keller Williams/ The Monday Team)
I want to take a minute to speak directly to listing agents and sellers.There’s a version of your property that you may be underselling—not because it isn’t good, but because you’re apologizing for it.I see this all the time:“The kitchen is dated, so we’re worried.”“The backyard needs work, so we priced it low.”“We know it’s not for everyone.”Let’s pause there.“Not for everyone” isn’t a liability in today’s Bay Area market—it’s actually a positioning strategy.Here’s what’s happening, especially across Oakland and the East Bay: there’s a growing segment of buyers—educated, values-driven, community-focused—who are turned off by overly flipped, cookie-cutter homes. The gray floors, the open-concept-everything, the sameness.They’re not looking for perfect.They’re looking for character.What ...
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By Kerri Naslund-Monday, Savvy Bay Area CA Real Estate Team Leader
(Keller Williams/ The Monday Team)
Let me tell you about a couple I worked with in Temescal.They had been searching for eight months.Eight. Months. They had a spreadsheet. Color coded. Multiple tabs. One tab was literally called "Dealbreakers" and it had 23 items on it.I love them. I also wanted to gently throw the spreadsheet out the window.Every house we toured got eliminated for something. Wrong kitchen layout. Outdated bathrooms. No dedicated office space. One house got cut because the backyard was "giving very 1987 energy" ... their words, not mine. They weren't wrong, but still.Then we walked into a craftsman in Temescal that had original hardwood floors, a kitchen that hadn't been touched since approximately the Clinton administration, and a backyard that was ... let's say ... a work in progress. A generous work i...
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By Arius Valentino, Principal & Realtor Luxe Residences, Founder Qrixe
(Luxe Residences)
 Brickell Miami Buildings with the Best Amenities and Luxury LifestyleInsightWhen buyers search brickell condo amenities or luxury lifestyle brickell, they believe they are comparing features.They are not.In Brickell, amenities are a surface layer. The real variable is how a building operates under daily load—how residents interact with space, how turnover affects environment, and how management sustains consistency.I do not evaluate buildings based on what they offer. I evaluate them based on how they perform.That distinction is where most decisions fail.AnalysisThe majority of listings across Miami present identical amenity sets: Pool Fitness center Concierge Resident lounges From a data standpoint, this creates zero differentiation.What actually separates buildings is a combination o...
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By Doug Haney, Springfield Ohio Real Estate Agent
(The Haney Group / Coldwell Banker Heritage)
What Realtors Really Get Paid — And the Biggest Misconceptions About the JobBy Doug Haney | The Haney Group at Coldwell Banker HeritageLet's cut straight to it: most people have no idea how real estate agents actually get paid — and the myths swirling around commission or what we call it a success fee have done a real disservice to both buyers and sellers. At The Haney Group with Coldwell Banker Heritage, we believe an informed client is our best client. So here's the full, unfiltered picture.How the Success Fee Actually WorksThe success fee model is simple on the surface but layered in practice. When a home sells, the seller typically pays a total success fee — historically around 5–6% of the sale price — which is then divided between the listing brokerage and the buyer's brokerage. Ea...
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