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 Jackie Sons
(Native Wildflowers Nursery)
Sometimes, life can be very challenging. You can keep a positive spirit. However, there are times when it seems like something needs to be fixed professionally and/or personally, no matter how a person strategizes. And when this happens, there are things we can all do instead of throwing in the towel, getting angry to the point where it raises our blood pressure, and more. There are healthier alternatives, and the following includes those alternatives: Make a Great ListWhen everything fails, it can be hard to maintain self-confidence. Nevertheless, after going through frustration and other negative feelings, it is vital to get a hold of oneself and start to make great lists. One list is of all the things to be grateful for. The other list should be all the accomplishments one should be ...
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By Sean Gilliam, Real Estate on the Front Range
(LoKation Real Estate)
Metropolitan Districts, also known as metro districts or metro tax districts, have become an integral part of local new construction communities in recent years. Here in Northern Colorado, homes are being built in or reside in these districts and they have important implications for home buyers. I’ll share with you the purpose and definition of a metro district per the Colorado Revised Statute, some research completed on the implications for homeowners, pros and cons and finally some due diligence you can do to see if living in a Metro District is a good fit for you.  
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By Phyllis Ross, Realtor Central Kansas Residential Sales
(eXp Realty LLC Salina Group)
  Are you prepping to buy your first home? If so, one of the steps you should take early on is making sure you’re financially ready for your purchase. Here are just a few of the financial fundamentals you’ll need to focus on as you set out to buy a home. Build Your Credit Your credit is one element that helps determine which home loan you’ll qualify for. It also impacts your mortgage interest rate. While there are many factors that go into your mortgage application, a higher credit score could lead to a lower monthly payment in the long run. So how do you make sure your credit is in the best shape possible when it’s time to buy? A recent article from NerdWallet lists a few tips you can use as you work to build and strengthen your credit. They include: Tracking your credit and disputing...
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By Jan TAYLOR, Dual licensed Real Estate & Mortgage Loan Officer
(Country Pride Real Estate, LLC. | AmCap Home Loans)
2022 was a crazy year for all of us, Real Estate and Mortgage. We started with historically low rates and the Real Estate industry was still going fast and furious - and ended up with a massive rate increase that literally put the brakes on the industry. I felt it - being on both sides, Real Estate AND Mortgage. Buyers are shying away from home purchases because of rate. Others who were preapproved at the beginning of the year simply cannot fit into a home purchase or if so, a much smaller purchase. Yes, I understand that the new catch phrase is "Date the rate, marry the home" - but that is based on IF/WHEN interest rates go down you can always refinance, a very dangerous position. What IF rates don't go down and even scarier -- what if the home value depreciates because of a market cor...
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By ADAM miller, Aloha from the beautiful island of Maui
(Nine Times Network)
Don't Move to MauiWe strive to be your go-to Maui Real Estate Team. We also strive to be honest, open, and straightforward with you as well.mes Network. As your Hawaii Real Estate Team, we are excited to be by your side during this amazing journey.  Whether you are someone looking to Move to Hawaii, Invest in Hawaii Real Estate, or a Homeowner wanting to sell a home or condo, please consider us as your partner.   Yes, we are real estate agents and yes, we would love to help you buy a home or sell a home on Maui. We also do not want you to become another Maui statistic who moves back to the mainland in a few months or a year or two.Its a big deal to move anywhere, let alone an island chain in the middle of the pacific ocean. Adam Miller R(S) 81648808-866-6606Jessica Miller R(S) 81811Jess...
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By Silvana Ralphs, I am a real estate agent student in Salt Lake
(Student)
Dual Agency is something that you probably heard about before. Dual Agency is not an illegal action in some states in the US but if you don't follow some rules, it can become a big trouble for a real estate agent. First, if you don't know what Dual Agency means - is when a real estate agent represents both parties in the same transaction. When this happens, you need to get consent from both parties in writing, but some states can be different.What is the law saying about Dual Agency in your state?   
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By Deborah Trizio, I'm an Italian real estate agent
(Debora Trizio)
Discover the allure of a Tuscan farmhouse for sale A sprawling stone farmhouse surrounded by rolling hills and lined by olive trees, with an infinity pool overlooking the vineyards. Homes with pools for sale in Chianti, as well as land for sale in Tuscany, are among the most sought-after types of property worldwide. It goes without saying that Tuscanian vistas and distinctively rich cultural past play a significant role in their appeal. A farm with a view near Florence, Siena, or LuccaTravelers from all over the world come to Florence, Siena, and Lucca because of their culture, views, hills, and shore. Is this the explanation behind the numerous Hollywood celebrities and businesspeople from the USA and Northern Europe who decide to purchase a farmhouse for sale?Read more about your drea...
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By Brayden Adamson, Real Estate Agent (currently in schooling)
(N/A)
As I am beginning my training in the real estate field I am learning more and more just how important a good code of ethics is. You are only as good as your weakest link. Thats why I have chosen to write this blog post on dishonesty, and why it is one of 21 ways you can lose your license in the State of Utah.     Dishonesty has the ability to quickly ruin a broker and agents hard earned name. Dishonesty, in my opinion, is also where all 21 of the other ways to lose a license stem from. Dishonesty is a slippery slope. Being dishonest can range from small things, such as saying a water heater is supposed to leak in a certain spot, too much bigger things concerning the entire house. Either way, as an agent, it is incredibly important to stay honest in you business dealings.
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By Christine Kim, Real estate agent serving Los Angeles' Westside
(BuyDeluxeHome.com)
Trousdale Estates, CA Homes for Sale | History of Trousdale Estates in Beverly Hills, CATrousdale Estates is a neighborhood in Beverly Hills, California. It is one of the most exclusive residential areas in the state, boasting lush homes and beautiful views. But what makes Trousdale Estates so special? Its history! Let’s take a look at how this luxurious area became what it is today.Trousdale Estates was established by Paul Trousdale, an entrepreneur and real estate developer from Tennessee who moved to Los Angeles in 1952 with his wife Anna May. He quickly saw potential for profit in Los Angeles due to its rapidly growing population and lack of housing options, so he began buying up parcels of land around the hills north of Sunset Boulevard – eventually amassing some 1,200 acres stretc...
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By Christopher Arnell, Austin Real Estate Agent
(RE/MAX Posh Properties)
If you've started to think about buying a home, you may already be feeling overwhelmed, especially if this is your first time. There's so much to think about and so many new terms to learn, and on top of that, you're making a substantial financial commitment. You might be mentally making long lists of what could go wrong before you've even got a good handle on what the process involves. Before you panic and talk yourself out of it entirely, read the buying a home checklist below so that you better understand the steps that you need to take.Making the DecisionShould you even buy a home? There are a lot of factors to consider, including how long you plan to live in your area and your financial situation. You don't have to stay in the same house for the next 30 years, but if you're thinkin...
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By Christian Halas, Tax, Insurance, Investment Specialist
(Halas Consulting)
I perform tax prep and planning, as well as IRS and state civil tax representation for Pittsburgh and vicinity, as well as the rest of the Commonwealth of PA. The time is now to make your last-minute tax moves for 2022. Not a whole lot can be done after December 31st. 1. Prepay rent using IRS Safe Harbor RulesThe tax rules allow you pay up to 12 months in expenses in advance without challenge, adjustment or change by the IRSExample: Your rent is $3000 per month and you would like a $36,000 (or less) deduction for 2022, so on Friday December 30th you mail a check your landlord for up to $36,000. He receives the money on Tuesday January 3rd. You deduct the up to $36,000 in rent in 2022, the year you paid it. He claims it in 2023 the year he receives it. You get a tax deduction in 2022, an...
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By Guy Alberghini, I help real Estate investors get the best loans
(GLAREloans)
Need money for your fix and flip’s? Rentals? Cash out refits?I have millions of dollars to lend!    Private lender    Competitive rate    Quick closing     Lend nationwide (almost)    Non owner occupied    Credit not an issue    Single family to fourplex Message me or call today!
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By Marcus Anderson, Mortgage Broker & Agent | Westside Los Angeles, CA
(MortgageBrokerSantaMonica.com)
Is it better to go through a mortgage broker or direct to a bank?A mortgage broker is an intermediary between you and the lender. Their job is to find you the best deal. They have a selection of hundreds of different lenders.A bank can only show you what they have to offer. A mortgage broker can show you what that bank has to offer, as well as all of the other options available to you and your needs. Their knowledge of your specific situation and goals combined with their abundance of resources enables them to find the perfect deal for you.A mortgage broker’s pre-approval letter can mean the difference between having your offer accepted or losing out to another potential buyer. This is because listing agents are familiar with a bank’s bureaucracy, which causes them to be slower. But, mo...
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By Scott Schulte
(Scott Schulte LLC)
Sun City Grand Surprise ArizonaIf you are searching for a home to spend your retirement in style or you are looking to make some new friends, the Sun City Grand Surprise, Arizona, offers you a chance to get out and enjoy the Arizona sunshine. Whether you enjoy hiking, golfing, fishing, or just being out in nature, you'll find plenty to do here. Sun City Grand PickleballLocated near Phoenix, Sun City Grand is one of the greatest active adult communities in the state. The community has nearly 4,000 acres of land and almost 9,500 residences.Sun City Grand is not a gated community but features several amenities. It features two fitness centers, four golf courses, and many other recreational facilities. The community is also home to several bocce ball courts, tennis courts, and pickleball co...
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By Stephanie Huber, Real Estate Brokerage serving Port St. Lucie, FL
(www.thehubergroup.com | Huber Real Estate Group of Florida)
 Price spikes might have come to an end in the third quarter as rising mortgage rates dampened expectations for real estate appreciation according to the most recent NAR report.The third quarter of this year saw a continuation of the increasing trend in home prices, but the National Association of REALTORS®' most recent quarterly report suggests that the trend may be finally coming to a stop. Although home prices rose in almost every major metro in the third quarter, higher mortgage rates are starting to slow down the increase of home prices. 46 percent of the 185 markets that NAR monitors even saw double-digit growth.In the third quarter, the national median price for a single-family existing home increased by 8.6% to $398,000. The median price increased 14.2% year over year in the sec...
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By Sergio Vasquez, Realtor in Los Angeles
(Millennium 1st Team Realty, Inc)
27130 Shadowcrest Lane, Cathedral City  CA 92234  3 bed 2 bath - 1549 sq/ft - 7405 sq/ft Lot.  MLS ID: RS22217060This home is a must see and ready to move in!! Very nicely single family residence in the Shadowcrest 42 Home Gated Private Community. All amenities conveniently located very close to the home that offer tennis court, swimming pool and spa. Come check out all upgrades that included, kitchen, baths, wet bar, flooring and beautiful illumination of recessed lights thru out the home.   This home can be use as a primary, vacation or rental property.     
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By Colby Benton, I am a pre-license agent in training.
(No company)
While working as an active Real Estate professional your clients will be trusting you with their money in their transactions and it is incredibly important to be transparent with them about where the money is stored and where it is going. Some of the biggest scandals in real estate have to do with agents stealing or mishandling their clients money in one way or another.When a client does trust their finances to an agent, the agent may not under any circumstances use that money for anything other than what the client needs them to use it for. The agent must also be honest and transparent with the client about where the money is staying while not being used. If an agent does anything with the money for their own personal interests their license may be terminated and it would also really h...
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In the summer, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to stop working. A hot, stuffy house is no fun for anyone, so if your AC isn't doing its job, it's essential to find out why and get it fixed as soon as possible. Follow this guide to understand some of the most common reasons your air conditioner might not be cold and what you can do about it. The Filter Might Be CloggedOne reason your AC might not be blowing cold air is that the filter is clogged. The filter's job is to prevent dust and dirt from entering the air conditioner, but over time, it can get full. When this happens, the airflow is reduced, causing the AC to work less efficiently.To fix this, simply locate the filter and clean or replace it as needed. Depending on how often you use your AC, you may need to do ...
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By Ken Solo, SoCal Homes is premier real estate buying company
(SoCal Homes)
State governments usually oversee public colleges and universities, and these schools get partly funded by taxes and state subsidies. As a result, public universities in a state often offer cheaper tuition to residents of that state. Public schools come in all shapes and sizes, from small liberal arts colleges to large research institutions. Here are the highest-ranked public colleges and universities in the 2022-2023 Best Colleges rankings, categorized by their ranking.University of California, BerkeleyUniversity of California, Berkeley is a public institution that was founded in 1868. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 32,143 (fall 2021), its setting is city, and the campus size is 1,232 acres. It utilizes a semester-based academic calendar. University of California, Berkeley'...
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By Jessica Smith, ITsGURU offers IT support services for Real Estate
(ITsGuru)
Many real estate agents find they are most successful when spending time outside of the office. There are various technology tools available to help these IT professionals stay connected with their colleagues and be more productive. If you want to succeed in selling real estate, you need to be able to respond quickly and efficiently and provide potential buyers with whatever they request. This requires agents to be organized and efficient in handling paperwork. If you're a real estate agent who wants to stay ahead of the curve, using IT Services or Tools can help you market your business and close deals more efficiently.Mobile DevicesSmartphones have become an integral tool for real estate agents who are constantly on the move. According to an article, consumers today expect real estate...
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