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 Nixon, Real Estate Appraisal Company North Georgia
(Pendley and Pendley Appraisers)
Pendley & Pendley Aquires Lanier Appraisal Service   Pendley & Pendley Appraisers has successfully acquired Lanier Appraisal Service domain and website, marking a niche based expansion for the Company into the Lake Lanier Market. This acquisition allows Pendley & Pendley to enhance its service offerings and broaden its market reach, leveraging the established reputation and expertise of Lanier Appraisal Service. The Company is known for its dedication to quality and accuracy in real estate valuations, has served clients in the North Georgia and Lake Lanier Market for over 30 years. This made the aquisition an ideal fit for Pendley & Pendley’s growth strategy. Lanier Appraisal Service's founder Mary Thompson a long time Rainmaker, chose Pendley & Pendley due to their years of  Lake Lani...
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By Chelsea Mcconnell, Real estate agent serving in Washington
(Chelsea Mcconnell )
How to Sell a Property Fast and for More Money: A Step-by-Step GuideSelling a property can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s possible to sell quickly while maximizing your profit. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate investor or a first-time seller, this guide will provide you with actionable strategies to ensure you get the best deal in the least amount of time.1. Start with a Competitive Price 🏷️The first step to selling your property quickly is setting the right price. If you price it too high, you might scare away potential buyers; too low, and you might leave money on the table. Here's how to find that sweet spot: Research local market trends: Understand the current market conditions in your area. Is it a seller's or a buyer's market? Check comparable sales (com...
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By Kathleen (Katie) Bak, Real estate broker serving Illinois and Wisconsin.
(Gates & Gables Realty / Gates & Gables with a CHOICE)
Are you looking to sell your home without paying high commission fees? Many homeowners assume they need a traditional real estate agent to get listed on the MLS, but that’s not the case! With a Flat Fee MLS Listing, you can market your home just like an agent would—without handing over a big commission check.At ListWithChoice.com, we help homeowners take full control of their sale while still getting maximum exposure. Here’s how it works! 🚀 What is a Flat Fee MLS Listing?A Flat Fee MLS Listing allows you to list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)—the same database that real estate agents use—without paying the traditional 5-6% commission. Instead, you pay a one-time fee to get your home listed and seen by thousands of buyers and agents.🔹 Your home appears on Zillow, Realtor...
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By Danielle Vinson, Serving Cincinnati and Dayton Ohio
(Plum Tree Realty)
Ohio, also known as the Buckeye State, boasts a rich food culture that’s often overlooked. From traditional family recipes to authentic ethnic cuisines, the state offers a variety of dining options for every taste. Come with me and enjoy a virtual culinary tour around the Buckeye State! Signature Dishes to try:  Buckeyes are a must-try treat in Ohio. Simple yet delicious, these peanut butter and chocolate bites are a local favorite. So, when you drop by at Ohio, don't miss out on experiencing a Buckeye for yourself! The Pierogi, is a beloved part of local culture. These versatile dumplings can be boiled or fried, filled with ingredients like potato, sauerkraut, fruit, and cheese. It’s a dish steeped in history, with families making them from scratch for generations. Sloppy Joe has a ric...
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By Mary Hauptman, Commercial Real Estate Broker in Melville NY 11747
(MRL Realty Corp)
In the modern business landscape, the debate between remote work and having a physical office space continues to evolve. With the rise of digital technology, many organizations are questioning whether they need a traditional office at all. However, while remote work offers flexibility and cost savings, there are several compelling reasons why having a physical office space is still a valuable asset for businesses of all sizes.This blog explores the benefits of having a physical office, touching on its impact on company culture, productivity, client relations, and business growth. For companies seeking to balance remote work with in-office presence or those debating whether to maintain or establish office space, the insights here can offer useful guidance.Enhanced Professionalism and Cre...
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By Angelica Robin, Founder of Robin Home Staging Agency
Hello everyone! This is my first post to active rain! (and I'm a little bit scared)I heard about this site through a friend, and I'm trying to figure this out!How do you connect to others? What is the best way to grow on this site? How do you join groups and discussions? What do you like about active rain?  I appreciate any tips or advice! Thank you in advance :)
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By Renoldo Jeffrey
(Homesight Inc Inspection Service)
disappointed, but not surprised  A home for ages to come I recently conducted a home built in the 80s(The good Reagan era) and while it was a straightforward endeavor, it left a permanent mark on me like an amputation. Common issues detected, aging roof, minor leaks, outdated wiring  Uncommon issues, prison in the basement, five feet of coke saturated carpeting, and five raccoon carcasses nailed to the wall All of these things I’ve seen and more, but in my years of inspecting, I have never broken both of my arms during one Long story short, don’t marry a crazy behemoth woman with an appetite for insanity
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By Paola Barrientos, Discover Boca & The Palm Beaches 🌴
(Boca Raton, FL)
Better Homes & Gardens, a trusted source for home design inspiration, highlights the top bathroom design trends for 2025 that focus on functionality, simplicity, and wellness: Functional and Spacious Layouts: Remodels that enhance space and usability are a top priority. Features like double vanities and expansive showers, ideal for two-person use, are becoming increasingly popular. Minimalist Aesthetics with White Tones: Homeowners are leaning toward clean and serene designs, with white hues and minimalist elements that emphasize tranquility through seamless lines. Low-Maintenance Materials: Practicality is key, with a preference for easy-to-clean materials, fingerprint-resistant fixtures, and surfaces that simplify upkeep for busy lifestyles. Smart Technology Integration: Advanced feat...
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By Christopher Shearer MBA DRE #02062657, Experience You Can Trust. Results You Can Count On
(Christopher Shearer Real Estate)
Carmel, CA Monterey County CA Understanding REOs: Real Estate Owned Properties Explained it comes to real estate investing or purchasing properties, you may come across the term REO, which stands for Real Estate Owned This category of property represents a unique opportunity for homebuyers and investors alike. In this blog post, we'll dive into what REOs are, how they come into existence, and why they can be an attractive option for those looking to purchase property.What is an REO Property?An REO property is a piece of real estate that has been foreclosed upon and is now owned by the lender, typically a bank or mortgage company. These properties end up in the hands of the lender when the previous owner defaults on their mortgage, and the lender is unable to sell the property at a forec...
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By Aldo Bobbio, Real Estate Marketing Specialist
(TREM Group)
Discover the Game-Changer for Realtors: Digital Marketing Mastery 💻Did you know that 76% of homebuyers search online for properties, and 75% are likely to engage with ads they click? 🚀This means your potential clients are already immersed in the digital world, eager to connect and engage. But how do you turn that digital interest into closed deals? This comprehensive guide explores: The Basics of Digital Marketing: Learn what it is and how it applies to real estate professionals. Key Benefits: Increased leads, cost-efficiency, better ROI, and tools to measure and refine campaigns. Organic vs. Paid Traffic: Understand how to leverage both strategies on platforms like Google, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram. Digital Marketing Funnel: Master the journey from impressions to transactions, t...
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By Weldon Antoine, Comprehensive inspection & A 203k HUD Consultant
(ANTOINE PROFESSIONAL REAL ESTATE HOME INSPECTION LLC)
Even if you think they’ve already started to freeze.  New homeowners may have heard that winterization is important, but in the hubbub of your first year living in a home you own (finally!), it can be easy to overlook the need to prepare for the cold weather ahead. After all, it's just not something renters deal with; prepping pipes for winter is often the landlord's job.Ideally, you should winterize your pipes in the fall, before winter seriously sets in. But if you've forgotten and all of a sudden you're in the middle of a deep freeze, you still have time to prevent disaster.Here are some easy techniques to save your pipes from bursting:#1 Turn On Your FaucetsIf the temperatures have dropped to freezing and intend to stay there, turning on your faucets — both indoors and out — can kee...
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Palm Beach County is known for its breathtaking waterfront properties, attracting investors and homeowners alike. But when it comes to waterfront condos, many wonder: Is it a smart investment or a potential financial headache? Let’s dive into the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.The Appeal of Waterfront Condos1. Location, Location, LocationLiving by the water comes with unmatched views, access to water activities, and a luxurious lifestyle. In Palm Beach County, waterfront condos are often situated near popular marinas, beaches, and vibrant local communities, making them highly desirable for both personal use and vacation rentals.2. Investment PotentialWaterfront condos tend to hold their value well due to limited inventory and high demand. Whether you’re buying for p...
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By Rafael Delara
My question is what should i do if i want to start out in the real estate field any questions?
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By Rita Garcia, Founder of Rita G Solutions
(eXp Realty of California, Inc. )
Can a CA real estate agent at XYZ Brokerage approach a CA listing agent at ABC Brokerage about a house that's been on the market for 6 months to suggest another company that could help the seller make more from the sale and potentially double the agent's commission? Would the referring agent be eligible for a referral fee?   
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By Salar Davari
(AI HomeDesign)
Where Virtual Staging Shines in Real EstateVirtual staging is quickly becoming a go-to option for real estate pros who want to present their properties in the best light without spending exorbitant amounts on actual furnishings. Thanks to easy-to-use tools, quick results, and realistic imagery, this approach has turned into a favorite in the listing game. Some realtors are drawn to it because they can update a space’s look in minutes, while others appreciate how it allows them to experiment with different styles before committing to one. Picture an older condominium that needs a touch of modern décor to catch the eye of a younger crowd—virtual staging achieves this swiftly, often at a fraction of the cost of a traditional staging service.Contrasting Methods for Digital FurnishingsWithin...
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By Wesley Upchurch, Certified Home Inspector Serving West Tennessee
(Upchurch Inspection)
Home inspections play a critical role in the real estate transaction process, offering invaluable insights into the condition of a property. For real estate agents, understanding the ins and outs of home inspections can help clients feel more informed and confident. Here are the top five things every real estate agent should know about home inspections:1. The Inspector’s Role Is Neutral Home inspectors are not there to "pass" or "fail" a property. Their job is to assess its condition and identify potential issues. A good inspector will present unbiased findings, enabling the buyer to make an informed decision. Agents can help manage client expectations by explaining that an inspection is a tool for transparency, not a negotiation weapon.2. No Home Is Perfect Even brand-new builds can ha...
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By Adriana Echartea-Storrs
(Inclineterraceslc )
Nowadays, having a Spanish-speaking agent in every Real Estate office is essential, whether you think it's necessary or not. You can feel its importance in daily life-at the grocery store, the library, the doctor's office, or anywhere else. Being able to sell products or services in Spanglish opens up countless opportunities that may not have been apparent before.The same principle applies to the real estate market. You never know when or where you'll encounter a potential client, buyer, seller, tenants, landlord or escrow officer who primarily communicates in Spanish or a mix of languages.Having bilingual capabilities ensures smoother communication and fosters trust in these unpredictable scenarios.Beyond transactions, bilingualism is crucial for cultivating an inclusive company cultur...
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By Llivo Corporation
(Llivo Corporation)
There’s nothing quite like waking up to the sound of waves, stepping out onto a balcony overlooking a beautiful beach, and feeling the ocean breeze on your face. A beachfront vacation rental can make for a magical holiday experience, but with so many options, how do you choose the perfect one? Here, we’ll walk you through some key considerations to ensure that you make the right choice for an unforgettable seaside escape. From luxury stays in the USA to vacation rentals with transport options, LLIVO offers solutions for every traveler.To learn more about LLIVO’s mission to make such stays accessible and personalized, check out the Story of LLIVO and learn how our journey aims to redefine travel experiences.1. Define Your Ideal Beach ExperienceBefore booking your beachfront rental, it’s ...
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Looking for an experienced agent to represent my distinctive 5-acre mountain property in Puerto Rico. This property offers unique appeal for mainland buyers seeking Act 60/22 benefits combined with privacy and self-sufficiency features.Property OverviewOur 4-bedroom estate features: Three private suites with en-suite bathrooms and separate entrances Fully remodeled kitchen and master suite Rooftop hot tub and vegetable garden Premium finishes including travertine throughout Multiple balconies and full roof access Smart home features and indoor/outdoor living design with full-width sliding glass doors Unique Selling Points Complete redundant infrastructure: Hybrid power system (solar + grid + generator backup) Dual water systems including existing well Reliable Starlink internet 1,200-ga...
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By Irving Tapia, Real Estate Student
(Agent Professor)
Looking at the median household income vs the price of your average house in Utah. One can say that your average Joe and Miss. Joe with little Joe Jr. cannot afford to pay cash for their first home. When your average Joe family trusts a licensed real estate agent with funds for earnest money or any other funds that pertain to the real estate transaction, they do not expect that their real estate agent will use those funds to drive to vegas and put it on black. It is sad to read some of the articles where agents used their clients funds to do something personal, like pay off a debt. Maybe for someone who deals with a lot of real estate transations usually in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, a few thousand dollars from the Joes might not seem like a cnsiderable amount, but to the Joe...
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