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 Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
Owning a dream home is a goal that many aspire to achieve. However, it can be difficult to finance your dream home, especially if you are working on a budget. There are several innovative ways to finance your home and make your dream a reality. This blog will explore five strategies to help you finance your dream home, from saving for a down payment to considering a loan with a low-interest rate and seeking financial advice from professionals. By following these tips, you can increase your chances of financing your dream home and making it a reality.Look Into Government-Sponsored ProgramsNumerous government programs are available that can help you finance your dream home. For example, the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) offers a variety of programs that can help qualified buyers wi...
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By Tyson Schuetze, Tyson Schuetze Auben Realty
(Auben Realty)
Retired marines, 25% management fees, and why roofs matter…My investment career would have one more sharp detour before I had to deal with the aftermath of 2008. My partner Jeff and I had decided our inter-state enterprise lacked efficiency, along with profitability. He wanted to focus on wholesaling and I wanted to learn how to act like a responsible investor—something that would take another 10 years for me to really figure out. I stopped looking in Orangeburg, Irmo, and Greenwood, SC and narrowed the scope of my search to Augusta and the greater CSRA (Central Savannah River Area). Unfortunately, geography was the only thing narrowed in my search for investment real estate. I still didn’t know how to find or buy investment real estate, but I found a partner named Scott who was known t...
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By Karla Jusko, Team Leader of The Concierge Group- REALTOR
(Exit Homestead Realty)
Multigenerational Living, is it really a trend? The New Jersey Association of Realtors (NJAR) thinks so. The July/August edition of New Jersey Realtor Magazine outlines recent upticks in families purchasing homes with both parents and children in mind.  Multigenerational homes are designed to provide space for multiple generations to live under one roof. I know the demand for these types of living situations has grown, especially in the Southern New Jersey market, where I primarily work with clients. Clients are requesting first floor bedrooms and full bathrooms, in addition to the living spaces they desire for themselves and their children. If the space has a separate entrance, that is even more desired. You may be thinking of the traditional "in-law suite" with totally separate living...
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By Kirk Burningham
(EMSilverlakeHome LLC)
Honesty in any industry is important. It wasn't until starting the Real Estate courses that I realized how important it is for professionals in real estate. I feel like there is a difference between being strictly honest and being discreet and maintaining confidences for clients. I know that it is our duty to real estate professionals to stay in the framework of the law but to also make sure we are always working in the best interests of our clients. Once we start thinking how can I benefit from this real estate transaction is when dishonesty and unethical practices can start to creep into our thinking and lead us down the path to poor decisions. After watching a video where a real estate agent was sleeping and using a client's home for his own benefit caught be off guard. I couldn't be...
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By Jeff Moore, REALTOR® Specializing In New Construction
(Holt Real Estate LLC)
                                                            Why buy new construction vs used homes?                                                               There are several advantages to buying new construction homes compared to used homes. Here are some reasons why people choose to buy new construction: Customization: When purchasing a new construction home, you often have the opportunity to customize certain aspects of the design and layout. This includes selecting finishes, fixtures, paint colors, flooring materials, and sometimes even the floor plan. This level of customization allows you to create a home that suits your personal preferences and needs. Modern Features and Amenities: New construction homes are typically built with modern features and amenities. These can incl...
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By mark williams, We create cool AI tools for Real Estate Pros
(Virtual House Flip)
In today’s fiercely competitive real estate market, standing out as an agent requires something truly exceptional. While many rely on traditional methods, the evolving landscape demands innovative approaches. Discerning buyers and sellers now seek more sophisticated solutions that go beyond conventional offerings.Revolutionizing Property Redesign: Confronting Challenges Head-OnIn the face of ordinary or challenging listings, a groundbreaking web app emerges as a powerful tool. Utilizing cutting-edge AI technology, it empowers agents to transform both the exterior and interior of properties, influenced by the expertise of renowned architects and interior designers.Key Features: Unlocking Potential with Your Home Design/Room Planner/Interior Designer ToolAI-Powered Redesign: Transforming ...
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By Columbus Realtors Association®, Top Real Estate Agent in Columbus Ohio
(Columbus Realtors Association®)
Key Takeaways: What is The Safest Area To Live In Columbus Ohio What is the safest area to live in Columbus Ohio? Columbus, Ohio, has various neighborhoods that are considered safe, providing a range of options for residents seeking a secure living environment. When examining crime statistics in Columbus, it is important to consider both property crime and violent crime rates to evaluate safety levels comprehensively. Neighborhoods with lower property crime rates tend to offer a higher level of security for residents due to a reduced risk of theft, burglary, and vandalism. While evaluating the safety of neighborhoods, it is crucial to consider factors beyond crime statistics, such as access to amenities, quality of schools, and community involvement, as they contribute to the overall we...
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By Loretta Lowe, Associate Broker/Residential & Commercial
(Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers)
Good afternoon.  A business acquaintance of mine has a relative in Detroit, Michigan who is looking to sell a family home asap.  The home is being sold "As Is" and they are looking to sell asap.  Can someone recommend an experienced, reliable Realtor servicing the Detroit, MI area who can contact the family asap? They are also willing to speak with investors.  Feel free to contact me at (770) 256-1963 or via email at loretta.lowe@metrobrokers.com with any questions. Thanks in advance for your assistance.
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By Manuel Angeles, Real Estate Investment Finance, Acquisitions
(Integrous Real Estate Capital)
Los Angeles Multifamily Market Report As of June 8, 2023Los Angeles apartment market conditions provide mixed signals. Several data points suggest the market has stabilized in 2023. Rents, which saw slight declines late last year, reached a floor in early December. Renter demand has improved in recent months compared to the negative net absorption witnessed late last year. While property managers are providing more generous incentives than a year ago, the percentage of properties offering concessions, around 16% at the end of April, has declined from a recent peak of 22% in October 2022.However, on a market-wide basis, vacancy, at 4.6%, continues to increase and is up from a recent low of 3.7% in 22Q1. Both demand and supply have precipitated the increase. Net absorption during the past...
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By Alicia Christensen, Soon to be Utah Real Estate Agent
(Personal)
In the Real Estate world, people put their trust in you with the biggest purchases of their lives.  You handle sensitive information, you hold the keys to their home, and you help them make decisions that can impact them their whole life.  So, as Agents and Brokers we need to represent ourselves as professionals ALL the time.I am in the pre-license phase of my Real Estate journey and as part of my assignment I was asked to write a blog.  Today, I was researching the types of disciplinary actions are taken when an agent or broker is doing something unethical.  The results surprise me.  I looked up a common last name which pulled up 21 results.  Out of the 21 results 3 were fined for not including their brokerage in their social media advertisement, 1 individual was conducting Real Estate...
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By Joel Richardson, SVP-Central Texas Mortgages, Home Reno Loan "Go-To
(VeraBank)
 Home renovation can be a great way to add value to your home and make it more comfortable and enjoyable.  There are many different types of renovations that you can do, from minor cosmetic improvements to significant structural changes. Before you get started, it's essential to do some research and create a detailed plan.  This can help you save time, money, and energy in the long run. Working with experienced professionals who can help you make the most of your renovation is also essential. You can open the door to a beautiful new home with the proper knowledge and resources. Assess Your Needs and ResourcesAccording to the article, Craig Webb, editor-in-chief of Remodeling and ProSales magazine, advises: ask yourself what is essential in your ideal home. As an investment, one needs to...
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By Austin McKenzie, Who you work with matters.
I listed a house. In a hot market a home might appraise more than expected. Appraisal passes great according to lender. However deal falls through due to buyer financing. Next buyer agrees to increase their offer if they can see that home really appraised as high as Lender said. Do I have any right as listing agent to get my hands on the appraisal?
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By Nick Roshdieh, Seasoned Real Estate agent in Southern California
(Nick Roshdieh)
Two homes sold by Nick Roshdieh, a Real Estate Agent of Pacific Sotheby's International Realty, will be featured on HGTV with Tarek! This beautiful property was sold in one day full price.You can view the properties here: 16802 Casimir Ave, Torrance, CA 90504 5282 Bransford Dr, La Palma, CA 90623   About Nick Roshdieh Nick Roshdieh, an award-winning realtor with Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty, has earned a reputation for being synonymous with high-end, luxury living. Nick has been featured on the cover of four real estate publications, such as Executive Agent, and has built a sterling career that spans over a decade.   
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By Nitesha Armstrong
One of the most common ways to lose your license in real estate is mishandling funds. It's one of the most important fiduciary duties of an agent and broker, yet I have read so many articles in the licensing and disciplinary actions section related to money problems in real estate.Money Problems:Failing, within a reasonable time, to account for or to remit money that belongs to another and comes into the person's possession.Commingling money with the person's own money.Diverting money from the purpose for which the money is received.Here are some articles that I came across while learning about the grounds for disciplinary actions.https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/real-estate-agentbroker-sentenced-year-prison-embezzling-over-100000-clients-moneyThe above article is about an agent / bro...
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By Lindsay Greene, Oklahoma City Real Estate
(Lindsay Greene Oklahoma Real Estate Agent)
Lindsay Greene is a well-known Real Estate Agent in Oklahoma City.  She was recently voted #1 Agent by Oklahoma Reader's Choice Awards. While she helps many buyers and sellers in the Oklahoma City area, she also loves working the countryside. Lindsay studies her markets within a 50 mile radius of Nichols Hills in order to better serve her luxury clientele and equestrian clientele. Lindsay is also a divorce listing specialist. With her background in Family Counseling, she can help mediate while selling your home. She recently finished writing, "House Selling Options During A Divorce", grab a free copy of her real estate book.If you would like to book a consult with Lindsay, you can see her calendar here.
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By Greg Bacheller
(Real Property Management Colorado)
Spring is the perfect time to get your Littleton rental property ready for the busier months ahead. Here in Colorado, the busy leasing season begins around the end of April and goes through August, sometimes spilling over into September. As the temperatures begin to increase, so, too, does the number of renters looking to make a change. Real Property Management Colorado knows the rental market like the back of our own hands. Our team of experts is very well-equipped to get your home ready and rented quickly. If you’re interested in a more hands-off approach to managing your rental property, we’re here to help! Get started with a FREE Rental Analysis! And in the meantime, here are a few tips you can utilize to help prepare your Littleton rental for the busy leasing season ahead!Preparing...
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By Jonathan Schultz & Ashley Novak, Real estate team serving Los Angeles and South Bay
(Novak Schultz Real Estate Group)
Redondo BeachRedondo Beach, California is a laidback, lovely coastal city in beautiful Southern California located 5 miles south of LAX International Airport along the Pacific Ocean. Redondo Beach is the South Bay’s oldest and largest beach community with a population of 67K.  It is the most populous city along the California coast. Redondo Beach is bordered by Hermosa Beach to the north, Torrance to the east and Palos Verdes to the south and the Villas North section of North Redondo borders Manhattan Beach. The city's highly rated public schools and the sense of community are big draws to Redondo Beach.Redondo Beach CommunityRedondo has a great sense of community with movie nights, concerts at the pier, Farmer’s Markets, annual Kite Festival, Beach Life Festival, Holiday Boat Parade, t...
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By Jon Nelson, Real Estate Agent/Auctioneer - Valuation/Advisory
(Seaport Real Estate Services)
Seaport Real Estate Services is not just where I keep my license, its why I keep it. Here are the Reasons:       Culture – From the beginning, my intention was to become licensed in real estate with a specific purpose beyond just “selling”. The goal was to merge a real meaning with the financial rewards it can provide, doing something I truly believe in. This is the guiding principle at Seaport.       Systems & Resources – With a previous appraisal background, I’ve had the advantage of adopting my own “numbers” approach, leveraged by access to proprietary valuation systems and software engineered in-house at Seaport. When consulting Buyers, Sellers, and other Agents on property values, I don’t have a “presentation”, I have a specific philosophy rooted in Valuation, and I stand behind it...
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By Steve Depoe, Taking the stress out of Buying and Selling
(The Rose Realty Team)
Though the housing market is no longer experiencing the frenzy we are experienced a year ago, buyers are showing their interest in purchasing a home. According to U.S. News:Housing markets have cooled slightly, but demand hasn’t disappeared, and in many places remains strong largely due to the shortage of homes on the market.That activity can be seen in the latest Showing Time Showing Index, which is a measure of buyers actively touring available homes. There was a  62% jump in showings from December to January is one of the largest on record. There were also more showings in January than in any other month since last May. As you can tell, it’s normal for showings to increase early in the year, but the jump this January was larger than usual, and a lot of that has to do with mortgage ra...
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By William Koonce
(Chicago Realtor Group)
The sewer camera inspection is a vital process for maintaining a healthy and safe sewer system for homes. It is a cost-effective way to identify potential problems and keep the sewer system running smoothly. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of sewer camera inspections and how it can help keep your sewer system in top condition. If you are buying or selling a home it is good to know your sewer line and drains are all in good working order. Sewer Line Inspections  Sewer line camera inspections are important for identifying potential problems and keeping the sewer system running smoothly. During a sewer scoping inspection, a qualified plumber will inspect the sewer line using a specialized video camera that has a flexible rod attached. This allows the plumbing technician to ge...
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