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 Dan McElfresh, Your St. Louis real estate & lifestyle guide
(St. Louis Living powered by ExP Realty)
Purchasing a home is a milestone that many of us dream of, but the journey to turning that key for the first time can be filled with uncertainty and stress. That's where Emily and the team at Flat Branch Home Loans shine, transforming the daunting into the doable, the complex into the clear.The Journey to Mortgage MasteryEmily's venture into the mortgage industry was sparked by her own home-buying experience. Understanding firsthand the rollercoaster of emotions and the avalanche of questions that come with purchasing a home, she embarked on a mission: to demystify the mortgage process for others. Emily is not just any loan officer; she's a guide, a supporter, and, most importantly, a listener who knows that at the heart of every mortgage is a dream waiting to be realized.A Personal Tou...
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By Danny Stewart, PR Rep for Pillar To Post in the US
(Pillar To Post)
Pillar To Post, the largest home inspection company in North America, has announced a complete brand refresh that is intended to provide new and existing franchise business owners with a more enticing and profitable franchise opportunity than ever before. The systemwide revamp is also intended to keep Pillar To Post on track with its anticipated growth goals.To expand its network of franchise business owners, Pillar To Post is actively seeking individuals interested in building multi-inspector teams. While home inspection or real estate experience is welcomed, it is considered optional. The brand aims to accelerate its growth in both new and established markets through streamlined training approaches, technological advancements, and the proven support of a traditional franchise system. ...
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By Kukun--240-483-3649 Franklin Carroll, Elite client engagement tools and proptech
(Kukun, Inc.)
While all realtors recognize the importance of generating leads and dedicate significant time to it, far fewer invest substantial efforts into customer retention. Consequently, despite achieving high levels of customer satisfaction, many struggle to secure repeat business. Research conducted by Remax indicates that although approximately 90% of clients were happy with their realtors and expressed willingness to do business with them again, a mere 17% actually did. While some of this discrepancy may be attributed to clients no longer residing in that local market, after all many people selling a home do so because they are moving far away, those who used a realtor to buy a home could be expected to return when selling later down the road. Assuming that roughly half of the polled individu...
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By Middy Matthews, The Arbor Move Team: Ann Arbor's Top Producer
(Arbor Move)
Celebrity Connections: Stars Sending Their Kids to the University of Michigan Explore the connections between celebrities and the University of Michigan, including famous parents who have sent their children to U of M, emotional college transitions, and the impact on the university community. Introduction: Exploring Celebrity Connections to the University of Michigan The University of Michigan stands as a beacon of academic excellence that attracts students from diverse backgrounds, including celebrities entrusting their children's education to its renowned institution. [Arbor Move Real Estate Team](https://www.arbormove. href="https://toofab.com/2023/10/07/famous-parents-dropped-kids-off-college-this-year">University of Michigan is showcased as a top-notch educational experience for f...
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By Nancy Moore, Assoc.Broker/Realtor In my hometown of Needham,MA
(Gibson Sotheby's International Realty)
 A pre-approval is  an indication from your lender that they're ready to finance a specific amount for your future home. Remember, the pre-approval amount is their maximum offer; only borrow what you're comfortable repaying. With more homes listed but inventory still below the norm, coupled with a recent decline in mortgage rates, competition is fierce. A Pre-approval not only demonstrates your seriousness to sellers but also positions you strategically in a market where demand outweighs supply. It showcases your financial readiness, having undergone credit and financial checks, giving you an edge in a competitive market. The expertise and support provided by an experienced Realtor such as Nancy Moore Needham Realtor, can significantly enhance the home buying process. Her knowledge, neg...
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By Darrick Olsen | Marilyn Trabaccone, We specialize in Golf and Ski Resort Properties
(Trabaccone Olsen Advisors | Engel & Völkers Park City)
Finding Your Ideal Home: Exploring Park City's Diverse NeighborhoodsIntroduction:Welcome to our blog post where we will take you on a journey through the various neighborhoods of Park City, helping you find the perfect place to call home. From prestigious gated communities like Red Cloud, Deer Crest, Bald Eagle Club, Empire Pass, Nakoma, and Bannerwood, to charming neighborhoods like Aerie, Thaynes, Park Meadows, Sun Peak, and Silver Springs, we will highlight areas that offer unique amenities and are popular for primary residential living.Deer Valley- Red Cloud: Immerse yourself in ski-in/ski-out luxury in Red Cloud in Empire Pass, an upscale community known for its panoramic views and luxurious residences.- Empire Pass: Elevate your mountain living experience in Empire Pass, a sought-...
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By Klapperich Real Estate, Family-owned Wisconsin real estate firm since 1979
(Klapperich Real Estate)
Klapperich Real Estate continues to help guide buyers and sellers as it celebrates its 45th year as an independent real estate firm. The real estate company specializes in single family homes, condos, waterfront, investment properties, and land sales.“The growth of the company can be attributed to our customers, agents and support staff, past and present, that share in the same culture of high standards, professionalism and ethics. We realize there are a lot of options today when selecting a firm or agent to help you buy or sell. It’s important to choose wisely because there can be huge differences.” said Steve Klapperich, managing broker.Trusted guidance to buying and selling homes has always been the foundation to success at Klapperich Real Estate. There is an unrivaled dedication tow...
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By Jose Segarra, When Experience Matters, Hire Real Estate Veteran
(Homevets Realty LLC)
Embarking on unexpected journeys is a hallmark of life, and my recent venture from the world of real estate into the realm of politics, and back again, has been nothing short of enlightening. In this blog post, I want to share the valuable lessons I've learned along the way. From Property Listings to Political CampaignsThe transition from real estate to politics was not a leap I had initially planned. However, the experience proved to be a unique chapter in my professional life. Here are some insights gained during this unexpected detour: Lesson 1: Embrace the UnpredictabilityThe real estate market, like politics, is inherently unpredictable. Economic shifts, policy changes, and community sentiments all play a role in shaping both landscapes. Embrace the uncertainty, and rather than fea...
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By John Turner-McClelland, Real estate agent serving Greensboro
(Worth Clark Realty)
Looking for a great dining option in Greensboro NC for Valentine’s Day? We’ve curated a list of restaurants that could be the next choice for your and your loved one on February 14th. The list is below, along with this interactive map to help you locate them.Fleming’s Prime SteakhouseB. Christopher’sRuth’s Chris Steak HouseThe MarisolGreen Valley GrillDiValletta RestaurantUndercurrent RestaurantPrint Works BistroMJ’s Restaurant and CateringOsteria
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By Lisa Fuit
(Student )
What is Dual representation and what happens when consent isn't given? Dual representation or dual agency is when the same real estate agent is representing both parties (buyer and the seller).  An agent would need to get written consent first to be able to represent both buyer and seller. If one or the other doesn't provide consent, then they have the right to opt out of the deal.  Representing them without written consent is a breach of the agent's fiduciary rules and can cause an agent to lose their real estate license or have it revoked. It also affects the broker in a poor manner and will cause everyone to lose the deal or transaction. There is a financial incentive for a dual agent to be over the entire transaction and receive full commission and that is why caution should be used...
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By Ken & Ari Walker - Husband & Wife Team, Your Direct Private Money Source
(Pacific Direct Mortgage)
In 2024, homebuyers can expect lower mortgage rates, higher home prices and a lot more competition. After nervously watching mortgage rates get two-decade highs and inventory plunge in 2023, many hopeful homebuyers are eager to get off the sidelines and into a home.While 2023 was a better year for real estate in many respects, many buyers still struggled with affordability. If you are planning to buy a house in 2024, here is what you can expect, according to some experts: Fannie Mae sees home prices rising 2.8% year over year by the end of 2024. The Mortgage Bankers Association believes prices could rise as much as 4.1% next year. The National Association of Realtors has more conservative expectations and predicts existing-home prices will inch up just 0.7% over next year. Realtor.com p...
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By LeAnne Carswell, Real estate broker in charge of large team
(Expert Real Estate Team)
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Greer, South Carolina, golf course homes offer a unique blend of luxury living and scenic beauty. Imagine waking up to the lush green fairways, enjoying breathtaking views, and having easy access to world-class golf facilities right outside your doorstep. In this blog, we will explore the charm and allure of Greer's golf course homes, highlighting the features that make them the epitome of upscale living.Click here to see available homes:  Greer, SC Golf Course homes Prime Location: Greer, SC is renowned for its ideal location, providing a serene and peaceful atmosphere while being conveniently close to urban amenities. Golf course homes in Greer are strategically positioned, offering residents the best of both worlds – tranquility and accessibili...
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By Freeman Wang, Real estate agent serving in California
(Freeman Wang Team)
Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty (YHSGR) is excited to introduce the YHSGR Advantage, a revolutionary marketplace poised to transform the home buying and selling experience. This pioneering platform provides a diverse array of state-of-the-art solutions, empowering both sellers and buyers to navigate the real estate market with unwavering confidence and achieve their goals with unparalleled success. Discover the Seamless Functionality of YHSGR Advantage: Uniting Offers in a Single Marketplace: YHSGR agents leverage the transformative capabilities of YHSGR Advantage by soliciting offers from a myriad of providers. This consolidation creates a singular, user-friendly marketplace that simplifies the intricate processes of buying and selling homes. Profound Expertise at Your Disposal: Our d...
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By Donna Eller, Luxury is Feeling not a Price Point!
(Keller Williams Domain)
During this time of the year, agents seem to calm down and do holiday cheer. I'm out to say in last 3 months all 6 of my listings which happen to be all over Michigan got Multiple offers. 3 selling in 3 days with 6 or more offers. 2 sold in 7 days and had at least 3 offers and the last one sold in 1 day. The other thing to note is THEY ALL SOLD over asking, anywhere from 2k to 27k.BAM! - Here's my Holiday Cheer to those of you not working, PEOPLE are still selling and buying! BRING ON THE REFERRALS - I'm working!Donna Eller, KW Domain, Birmingham Michigan
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By Tom Hurley, Residential and commercial inspector.
(Double H Inspections)
Hello! I'm Tom Hurley, the proud owner of Double H Inspections, based in the beautiful Sheridan, Wyoming. My journey in the world of construction and real estate began during my high school years, starting with hands-on experience in a roofing and remodeling company. This foundational period ignited a passion that led me through a diverse career in general construction, specialized roofing projects, low voltage, and alarm systems installation, and eventually into construction management and sales.Alongside my wife, I ventured into real estate, purchasing and renovating multiple homes. This experience gave me a unique insight into the property lifecycle—from acquisition to transformation. In 2020, driven by a passion for excellence and equipped with a comprehensive skill set honed over t...
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By Jeff Parcheta, Director of Sales at Chetu - Real Estate Software
(Chetu Inc.)
Greetings! I'm Jeff Parcheta, Director of Sales at Chetu Inc. Our company delivers world-class custom software solutions to empower businesses, including major players in real estate.With over 15 years of experience in the industry, I've witnessed firsthand the paradigm shifts driven by technology. Today, I'd like to share my perspectives on how emerging innovations are redefining real estate.The Tech Landscape in Real Estate: A Paradigm ShiftThe real estate landscape today is markedly different from the one I entered back in the early 2000s. Tech has transformed how properties are marketed, bought, sold, and managed.As an industry veteran, I've guided many client accounts through this transition at Chetu. Change can be uncomfortable, but resisting progress stagnates growth. My approach...
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By Dave Livingston, Painting Company Serving the Natick Area
(Natick Painting Company)
Selling a home is not just about bricks and mortar; it's about selling a dream, a lifestyle, and an emotional connection. One essential aspect of this is the choice of paint colors. In this article, I'll dive into the fascinating world of color psychology, exploring how it can play a pivotal role in capturing the hearts and minds of potential buyers.The Impact of Color on EmotionsColors have the remarkable ability to stir emotions and influence our moods. When it comes to a new home, these emotions can be a deciding factor for buyers. Picture yourself walking into a home with walls painted in warm, inviting tones of beige or soft blue. These colors create an immediate sense of calm and tranquility, which can be immensely appealing to homebuyers.On the flip side, picture yourself walking...
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By Jeremy Williams, Local Roofer - Houston and Austin TX
(Reign Roofing)
Perhaps the biggest threat that faces roofs in the Houston area is hailstorms. Although hail is often small and harmless, the larger stones pose a major threat to your roof—and in a variety of different ways. We often handle roofing repair in Houston, TX to fix hail damage, and in this post we want to share with you the ways that hail can inflict damage on your roof, as well as how to recognize it after the storm is over. It’s important to move fast to have hail damage professionally repaired, otherwise it will lead to greater damage down the road, including the need to replace the entire roof years early.How Hail Damages Your RoofHailstones come in a range of sizes, from tiny pellets to golf ball-sized stones that can shatter weaker shingles with a single blow. Here are some of the way...
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When your home appliances start acting up, it's tempting to roll up your sleeves and attempt a do-it-yourself repair. However, there are many reasons why hiring a professional appliance repair company can be a smarter choice. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of relying on experts for appliance repairs instead of embarking on a DIY adventure.The Complexities of Appliance RepairUnderstanding the IntricaciesHome appliances are intricate machines with numerous components that must work together seamlessly. While some issues might appear simple on the surface, they can be indicative of more complex underlying problems. Professional repair technicians have the training and experience to diagnose these issues accurately and provide effective solutions.Avoiding Further DamageAttem...
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By Rex Thomas, Rex Thomas: Redefining Real Estate
(Samson Properties)
Step into the world of luxurious and spacious living with 7407 Federline Ln, Ellicott City, MD 21043! This remarkable single-family home is a true embodiment of comfort and style, offering 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and an expansive 3,000 square feet of living space.A Haven of Tranquility and EleganceNestled in the charming community of Ellicott City, this residence harmonizes comfort, style, and convenience. The 4 thoughtfully designed bedrooms strike a perfect balance between personal space and connected living. The primary bedroom suite, complete with its private bathroom featuring a soothing soaking tub and a walk-in closet, promises a retreat-like experience. Each additional bedroom is generously sized and comes with its own closet, ensuring everyone's privacy is respected.​Expansive L...
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