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 Matthew Scarborough, Local Market Expert
(Scarborough Realty LLC)
Top Reasons People Are Moving to Santa Fe, NM Enchanting Culture and Arts Scene One of the primary reasons people are drawn to Santa Fe is its rich cultural tapestry and thriving arts scene. Homebuyers seeking a vibrant community will find art galleries, live performances, and a history that permeates every corner of the city. This allure is a significant boon for real estate agents listing properties that dot the culturally rich landscapes of Santa Fe. Serene Lifestyle and Natural Beauty Those looking for tranquility and inspiration often turn to Santa Fe for its serene lifestyle and breathtaking natural beauty. The city's calm vibe and picturesque surroundings are perfect for buyers wanting a peaceful retreat or scenic luxury real estate. With so many seeking a sanctuary away from th...
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By Eric Engelbert 949-430-7500, Broker/Owner
(Orange County Real Estate, Inc.)
Welcome to Orange County Real Estate, Inc.'s latest market report. Our mission is to provide you with valuable statistical insights directly from the MLS, ensuring you're well-prepared to make informed decisions regarding real estate in Orange County, California. Whether you're a buyer, seller, or considering a relocation within or outside the state, we're here to empower you with the information you need.Analyzing Recent Trends:This week, we've observed an uptick in inventory both in Orange County and nationwide. Interestingly, this increase comes at a time when historical trends would typically indicate a decrease in inventory levels. However, if buyers remain diligent and continue to take advantage of the current inventory, we could see a significant drop in available homes. The late...
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By Seth Miller, Student
(NA)
I’ve served in my current profession for more than two decades. During this time, I have seen plenty of record keeping. However, the record keeping that I have seen ranges from ok to not so great. While there were plenty of ways to keep records, the biggest challenge to good record keeping is being able to get people to modify their desk top procedures to fit a larger record keeping scheme.Microsoft Excel is the middle ground for the record keeping that I have seen. While Excel is decent at storing and processing information with formulas it is not wonderful either. As a supervisor I saw people sorting and filtering the same spreadsheet daily to get the information they needed.Microsoft PowerPoint is at the low end of the record keeping spectrum. PowerPoint’s strength is showing a group...
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By Rob McConville, CT Shoreline Real Estate Expert
(Coldwell Banker Choice Properties)
The concept of homeownership has been a cornerstone of the American dream for centuries, and one of the key components of achieving that dream is securing a mortgage. Throughout history, mortgage rates have fluctuated significantly, reflecting economic conditions, government policies, and societal changes. This article explores the fascinating journey of historical mortgage rates, from their humble beginnings to modern trends.The Early Roots of MortgagesMortgages, in some form, have existed for thousands of years. The word "mortgage" itself comes from the Old French "morgage," meaning a "dead pledge." In medieval Europe, a mortgage was essentially a conditional conveyance of land, where the borrower held the land but promised it as security for a loan. Interest rates during these times ...
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By Albert Wolf, Seniors Real Estate Specialist Empowering Seniors
(America's Real Estate Agency)
As we age, our housing needs often evolve, and for many seniors in Southeast Florida, this may mean considering a new home. However, the process of purchasing a home in one's golden years comes with unique challenges and considerations. From financial constraints to physical limitations, seniors often face hurdles when navigating the real estate market. Fortunately, there's a group of professionals specially trained to assist seniors with their real estate needs: Senior Real Estate Specialists (SRES) Realtors. In this blog, we'll explore some of the challenges seniors encounter when purchasing a home in Southeast Florida and how an SRES Realtor can provide invaluable assistance. Financial Constraints: One of the most significant challenges seniors face when buying a home in Southeast F...
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By Alex Casablanca, Triple Net (NNN) Investment Broker
Hi, my name is Alex Casablanca, Managing Broker at Casablanca Triple Net Lease Advisors. We are a boutique brokerage firm based in Orlando, Florida specializing in Selling NNN Investment Properties Nationwide USA. We represent Buyers, Sellers and 1031 Exchange investors in finding and negotiating the best NNN property according to their investment goals and risk tolerance.Today I’m going to talk to you about How to Buy a NNN Property in Florida. The state of Florida is the investor’s preferred location for their NNN Investment and 1031 Exchange replacement property. The main attraction for buying NNN Properties for Sale in Florida is that Florida is a No Income Tax State, in which the passive income is not subject to state taxes. A strong economy, strong population growth, and all-year-...
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By Julia Charters, Assistant in pre-licensing training
(Agent Professor)
In Utah, the water system we use is called prior appropriation. This system was developed by early pioneers. They knew that the riparian system used in the eastern, wetter states would not work in arid Utah, so they came up with the doctrine of prior appropriation. Unlike the riparian system, which allocates water rights to those who own the land on which the water exists, the prior appropriation system allocates water based on two main considerations: who was using the water first (also said as "first in time, first in right"), and whether the use is considered beneficial (usually economically). If someone with water rights is not using their rights, or not using them for a beneficial purpose, the rights may be taken away. This system helps to optimize water use in a state where water ...
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By Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes, Custom Home Builder in Austin
(Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes)
The custom home builders Austin, Texas industry stands out in the United States as a hotspot for massive infrastructure projects, commercial developments, and residential developments. With its second-largest population and second-largest area, Texas has a robust custom home builder sector, with countless custom home builder companies, each with its own strengths and specialties. One name consistently stands out when it comes to identifying the best custom home builder company in Texas: Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes.Zbranek & Holt Custom HomesBased in Austin, Texas, Zbranek and Holt Custom Homes is a world leader in engineering, procurement, custom home builder, maintenance and project management in Austin. With roots dating back to 1986, Zbranek & Holt Custom Homes have become giants in ...
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By Dale McCarthy Real Estate, Realtor (R) | Property Manager
(Dale McCarthy Real Estate)
Nestled in the heart of the Silver State, Henderson, Nevada stands as a shining testament to quality living and education. For families looking to nurture their children in an environment of excellence, Henderson is the destination par excellence.Why Choose Henderson for Education? Rigorous Academic Standards: The Nevada State Department of Education ensures that Henderson's schools consistently surpass educational standards. Regular evaluations and accreditations keep the institutions in check.   Exceptional Educators: Henderson takes pride in its dedicated teachers. Many boast advanced degrees and specialized training, emphasizing their commitment to shaping future leaders.   Focused Learning with Small Class Sizes: Individualized attention isn't just a tagline in Henderson. Smaller c...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
Hello, friends! October is upon us, and that means Q4 is in full swing. With the year-end approaching, it's an opportune moment to reflect on what might lie ahead in the Philadelphia real estate market and the surrounding areas. In this blog, I'll share some of my thoughts and opinions on various aspects of the real estate market as we navigate through Q4.1. Housing Inventory:Traditionally, Q4 sees a decrease in the number of homes on the market as kids go back to school, and the holiday season approaches. However, this year might bring some surprises. I don't believe we can see much lower inventory levels than we have recently experienced. In fact, inventory in Montgomery County has slightly increased in the past few weeks, moving from under one month of inventory to just over one mont...
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By Debra Stockton, Everything DIRT!
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
So when I signed up with Active Rain, I had no idea what a blog was or even how to "blog". (To be honest, I still don't😄) I'll figure it out!
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By Jian Ying, Real estate agent serving Salt Lake City area
(None)
This is a test. Just to test if my account is working. 
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By Delynda Middleton
(www.deemiddleton.com)
How to Fix the 7 Common Issues Preventing Your House from SellingIn our previous article, we discussed seven honest reasons why your house might not be selling. Now, let's delve into solutions for each of these issues to help you get your property off the market and into the hands of a happy buyer. 1. Overpricing Solution: Price Realistically To address overpricing, consult with a local real estate agent or appraiser who has a deep understanding of the market. They can provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) to determine a competitive price for your home. Be open to adjusting your asking price based on their recommendations and the feedback you receive from potential buyers.2. Curb Appeal Solution: Enhance Your Home's Exterior Invest in your home's exterior by performing minor lands...
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By ANTHONY BORDIN
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices)
As your Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties trusted real estate advisor, you can always count on me to be on your side whether you are buying or selling real estate. I can be trusted with taking care of you and your most valuable assets from the beginning to the end. You can contact me at 805-729-0527 or anthonybordin@bhhscal.comMy website: www.anthonybordin.com
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By Marco Cruz, Automation Made Easy
(automateNow )
It happened while I was serving in the US Navy in 2005 when I  bought my first property at the age of 23. I bought it so that some of my family could have a place to live. It was never my ambition to own real estate to create wealth. Unfortunately, I didn't start thinking of owning more real estate until I was in my 30s.However, that first condo was the start of my real estate journey. I still own it, and it has continued to provide passive income over the years. Looking back, I realized I made the right choice by not stopping paying the mortgage when I was significantly underwater during the GFC of 2007-2008. Friends told me to "forget about it" and let the back take it back. I'm glad I didn't listen to them!My journey has not been glamorous. As mentioned,  I did not fall in love with ...
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By Gonzalo Labra Orihuela
(NA)
     Dual Representation without consent is one of the many ways that a Real Estate agent can loose their license. It is when an agent represents both the buyer an seller of a property without letting the other client know. As an agent one has to let the client know that you will be representing both sides.     Also you have to get written permission from the client so that you are able to represent both sides. There are many cases of this happening around the U.S. It is very important for agents to understand that representing two parties with consent is unethical. The client can be thinking one thing on the fact that there are two different people negotiating a property. When in reality it is just one person doing the work.     That agent will be receiving the full commission from wha...
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By Frank Worrell, Turning BPOs Into Six-Figure Incomes
(BPOS FOR LIFE LLC)
 Hello, ActiveRain Community!If you're an agent or an investor looking to diversify your income streams, you've come to the right place. I’m Frank Worrell, a seasoned real estate professional specializing in Broker Price Opinions (BPOs), and I'm here to share how BPOs have the potential to bring in a steady flow of income.What is a Broker Price Opinion?A Broker Price Opinion (BPO) is an estimated property valuation given by a licensed real estate broker. While it doesn't replace an official appraisal, it serves as an alternative for institutions like banks or mortgage lenders to get a quick and cost-effective evaluation of a property's current market value.Why Should You Care?The demand for BPOs is continuously growing, particularly in a volatile market. It's a service that doesn't take...
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By Nic Stohler, Commercial Property Owner & SEO Consultant
(Gateway Private Equity Group)
You likely work with all buyers and sellers as a real estate agent. But have you considered specializing in working with real estate investors? Becoming an "investor-friendly real estate agent" can help you stand out in a competitive market.   So what exactly does it take? First, you need to understand investors' goals and strategies intimately. Investors aren't looking for just any property - they need to find undervalued gems with strong return potential. You should focus on the market's pulse to identify promising deals. You must also grasp investors' unique tactics to finance and negotiate optimal win-win deals. While any agent can facilitate transactions, investor-friendly realtors bring specialized skills to guide clients strategically. You become their trusted partner, helping th...
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By Kim Smith, Real Estate Agent in Escambia & Santa Rosa County
(Levin Rinke Realty)
An important factor shaping today’s market is the number of homes for sale. And, if you’re considering whether or not to list your house, that’s one of the biggest advantages you have right now. When housing inventory is this low, your house will stand out, especially if it’s priced right.But there are some early signs that more listings are coming. According to the latest data, new listings (homeowners who just put their house up for sale) are trending up. Here’s a look at why this is noteworthy and what it may mean for you.More Homes Are Coming onto the Market than UsualIt’s well known that the busiest time in the housing market each year is the spring buying season. That’s why there’s a predictable increase in the volume of newly listed homes throughout the first half of the year. Se...
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Hello everybody! My name is Kaeden Roberts. I am a college student and am working on getting my real estate license as a step in earning my degree in construction management. I am currently taking my 120 hour course and have been enjoying learning more about real estate and how I can connect with those in this real estate while I pursue my career in residential and commercial construction. We have recently been learning in my course of the 21 ways in which a real estate licensee can lose their license and have been asked to choose one of those 21 ways and write a paragraph or two on it and what it means to us. I chose to write on the one that I feel engrains the majority of the different ways in which you can lose your license which is dishonesty. Honesty in any form of business, I beli...
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