ActiveRain Community

I confess. I have my favorite lockboxes and my least favorite lockboxes. Depending on where you practice real estate, you may have a subscription to an electronic lockbox service. If you do, then you also may have the ability to purchase the lockboxes yourself OR they may be supplied by your brokerage.  And even if you have an ample supply of those, there are times when a combination lockbox is a better option. I’ve inherited lockboxes from properties over the years but some that have been offered to me are easy to politely say “no thanks” in return. I’m not a fan of the ones where you dial the combination and then have to use your fingernail to push down the lever. For those of us not grace with strong nails, those are rough! With so many properties now sporting level handles, most loc... 05/18/2025

I’m not one to get stuck in the past chanting the old “shoulda, coulda, woulda” anthem. That’s just not how I roll. Life has a way of moving forward, and so do I. But for the sake of this challenge, I took a walk down memory lane, and what a ride it’s been!When I stepped into the world of real estate, it wasn’t some long-dreamed plan. I was a single mom who needed a new path—and fast. Teaching no longer felt like the right fit, so I pivoted. Real estate made the shortlist, and before I knew it, I was knee-deep in classes, passed the exam, and signed on with a brokerage.I had amazing mentors, solid training, a strong support system, and in the most unexpected twist, I met my soulmate Geno along the way. Real estate, as it turned out, gave me more than just a career. It gave me a new life... 05/17/2025

Wet Feet Retreat on Lake Blue Ridge is the picture perfect lakeside mountain retreat.  It is currently being offered as a vacation short term rental (STR) as one of the few properties on Lake Blue Ridge available for rent.  At Wet Feet Retreat, you will experience comfortable yet upscale accommodations to enjoy. This completely renovated cottage offers the  perfect blend of modern features and amenities plus cozy character. While enjoying your stay, you'll feel the "mountain vibes" thanks to some of the original preserved features such as the character of the original hardwood floors, wall finishes, live edge wood slab bar that have been lovingly refinished for a warm and inviting atmosphere. This open floor plan cottage is spacious, featuring two King-sized bedrooms and a bathroom with... 05/17/2025

IS CREATIVITY BORN OR MADE?I found an answer that looks like this, "I hope you'll be relieved and excited to hear that yes, it is possible to develop creativity; creativity is a product of traits we can build in ourselves. However, these traits are not necessarily easy to develop."Creativity is something that has impressed me as being part of the AR Community. Many of you have shared some creative posts, ideas, photos, and creative dialogs. I have enjoyed each one deliciously!As I looked at the word creative closely, I found that there are categories of creativity; 1.) the triangle of creativity; 2.) the 4 P's of creativity; 3) the 5 A's of creativity; 4.) the seven C's of creativity; 5.) the 3 C's of creativity and many more.I also looked at the various definitions of creative. I think... 05/18/2025

 NORTH MIAMI KEYSTONE SANS SOUCI MIAMI-DADE FLORIDA REAL ESTATE BIGGEST SALES *as of May 16, 2025   WE HAVE THE KEY TO YOUR DREAM HOME. CHECK OUT REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN NORTH MIAMI KEYSTONE. #RealEstateMiami #SouthFloridaRealEstate #RealEstateNorthMiamiKeystoneMiami #NorthMiamiKeystoneRealEstate #MiamiRealEstate #RealEstate #Realtor #houseexpert #househunting #home #RealEstateAgent #RealEstateBroker #RealEstateExpert #RealEstateForSale #Realty #Broker #HomeForSale #HouseForSale #PropertyForSale #HomeForSaleMiami #HomeForSaleSouthFlorida #HomeForSaleSouthFlorida   Why Buyers Are More Likely To Get Concessions Right Now in Miami-Dade, FloridaEspecially in areas where inventory is rising, both homebuilders and sellers are sweetening the deal for buyers with things like paid clo... 05/16/2025

You may think you can't prevent an IRS seizure, but that's not entirely true - you can take proactive steps. Start by evaluating your financial situation and identifying vulnerable assets.Key Takeaways Pay taxes on time to prevent debt accumulation. Respond promptly to IRS notices and letters. Seek professional advice to navigate seizure processes. Utilize payment plans to manage tax debt. Understand and assert taxpayer rights and exemptions. Understanding IRS Seizure ProceduresWhen you're facing an IRS seizure, understanding the procedures involved is essential to managing the situation effectively. You'll receive a seizure notification, such as a "Final Notice of Intent to Levy," which triggers a 30-day period to appeal or make payment arrangements. It's important to know your appeal ... 05/16/2025

📅 OPEN HOUSE: Sunday, May 18th | 2–4 PM Beautiful Worthington condo with a sunny, vaulted great room and a chef’s dream kitchen—fully equipped with high-quality appliances including a combo microwave/air fryer/convection oven, gas range, fridge, and dishwasher. Walk-in pantry, fresh paint, new carpet, and gleaming wood floors throughout! ✨ Features include: ✅Vaulted ceilings in both upstairs bedrooms✅Ensuite bath + additional half bath✅Finished lower level w/ gas fireplace & egress windows✅Mudroom + 2 coat closets✅Deck overlooking a scenic walking/bike path✅Tons of storage space Enjoy maintenance-free living with HOA-covered lawn care, snow removal, trash, exterior upkeep—and fantastic community perks: pool, fitness center, clubhouse… all in a pet-friendly community close to shopping & ... 05/16/2025

"Sometimes you deserve a second chance, not because you weren't fabulous the first time, but because the timing and circumstances weren't quite right. You just got overlooked."   -Carol Williams  Second Chance Saturday is all about giving deserving posts more exposure. If you see a deserving post that didn't get Featured, be sure to tag Carol in the comment section of any post and watch for it in the next edition of Second Chance Saturday.   Let's Welcome Our First-Time Bloggers: Athos Pradera  Cordell Officer  Emanuelle Araujo  Chris McCord  * * * *  The Courage To Adjust Your Sails By: Lou Ludwig "As I see it..."  Hidden Costs Of Selling Your Home Without A Realtor®By: Chris Dunham "In theory, selling your home “For Sale By Owner” (FSBO) sounds great—save on commissions, control the ... 05/17/2025

  📍 5512 Pensworthy Drive, Dublin, OH 43016💰 Sold for $555,000 Congratulations to the new homeowners of this beautifully updated home in Cramer's Crossing—just in time for spring! 🌸✨ This 2,800 sq. ft. gem blends comfort, style, and peace of mind with: ✅ Renovated master bath✅ Fresh exterior paint & new roof✅ New water heater & serviced HVAC✅ Bright family room with skylights✅ Finished basement for added space✅ Gorgeous outdoor area with composite deck & patio Thinking about buying or selling? Let's chat!📞 Erik Hiss | Listing Agent📧 erikhiss@gmail.com | 📱 614-431-1770  05/15/2025

513 Taylor Road Northeast Welcome to this beautiful Southwestern style home located in the sought after Las Brisas neighborhood. Featuring 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. Step inside to discover a cozy Kiva fireplace that anchors the living space, perfect for relaxing evenings. One of the bedrooms has been thoughtfully customized with built-in cabinetry and a Murphy bed, making it ideal for guests, a home office, or multifunctional living. Natural light fills the home enhanced by custom shutters adding both elegance and energy efficiency. Outside you will enjoy the covered porch and a xeriscaped front and back yard offering easy maintenance and year round beauty while conserving water. Don't miss the opportunity to own this wonderful home! Seller is offering $4000 towards buye... 05/15/2025

Another great blog from are dear friend here in the Rain Grant Schneider. Persistence pays off.  Successful people are persistent and consistent.  These are people who have a single minded purpose and stay laser focused on their goal.  They choose their goals carefully. They have written them down and they are specific.  Their choice of goals is very important.  The goals have been well thought out and are the goals they really want. If you really want it don't look at a goal like a New Year's resolution.  Very little thought and commitment go into most New Years resolutions.  In a few months, when the person is no longer working on that goal it is evidence that he or she did not really want it in the first place.  So these goals must be YOURS and your must really want them. When planni... 05/15/2025

5212 Cherokee Road Northeast Welcome home to this hidden gem in Albuquerque's desirable and convenient NE Heights neighborhood. This home features an open dining area with an added on spacious living area, freshly painted walls throughout and a backyard for you to transform into your own personal oasis! Move in ready and also Perfect for any buyer looking to add value and personalize their home with their own personal touch. Location on this is great as well! Close proximity to parks, shopping, restaurants, schools and trails!Contact Information:Valerie AlmanzarKeller Williams RealtyYour Casa Team 505-9​23-4670 / 505-897-1100 05/15/2025

"It’s never too late to be what you might have been." ~ George Eliot The May Contest Charges Us With: Now Imagine This... You could rewind time and start your real estate career all over again, but this time with every tool available today, every lesson you’ve learned, every mistake you’ve made (and survived), and every marketing strategy you’ve tested. What would my real estate do-over look like? Well, my career has few regrets because it was kind of a do-over—already being my second career. I entered real estate after already owning and operating four businesses, as well as making many mistakes. So, my real estate do-over would mirror most of my current career: I joined Ninja Selling in month three and Buffini & Company in month six. Maybe I should have joined sooner? I know I should... 05/15/2025

  SATURDAY, MAY 17TH | 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM📍 128 Green Springs Drive, Columbus, OH 43235💬 Hosted by Kelly Snyder💲 Listed at $425,000 Exceptional Opportunity – One-Owner Bob Webb Home at a Discounted Price!Don't miss this chance to own a one-owner Bob Webb home on a desirable corner lot in The Sanctuary, just north of Worthington off US-23. This spacious 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home offers over 2,600 square feet and endless potential for customization. Bring your decorative vision and make it your dream home! 🛠 Sold AS-IS – updated HVAC (approx. 2016–2019). Buyers may inspect, but sellers are requesting a no-repair sale. 📞 Contact Joseph C. Jackson for more info: (614) 431-1220 | rjoe@kw.com   05/15/2025

Memorial Day, Monday, 26 May. is fast arriving. Before you know it the unofficial 1st day of the Summer season will be here.Many folks are unaware of the differences between Memorial Day, Veterans Day, & Armed Forces Day. Here is a short synopsis of each day Memorial Day - Last Monday of May. Honors those who died in service. It's a time for reflection on their sacrifice.  Veterans Day -  Honors all who have served. 11th of  November. The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we will all remember. Armed Forces Day -  3rd Saturday in May. Honors those currently serving. It's a day focused on those who are actively defending the nation in all six (6) branches of the military. Every day, I think of those who died, those who have returned, and those who are serving. There is no great... 05/15/2025

I’ve talked about this before, but I think it’s worth an exclamation point. Whenever we experience a rollercoaster stock market (and this one surely won’t be our last), it reinforces my belief, formed over many decades in this field: Real estate is the best vehicle to build long-term, sustainable wealth.Why? Go to realdata.com/insights for more on this and other articles of interest to real estate investors.   05/15/2025

Every year on May 15, and this year on Thursday May 15, 2025, we celebrate Happy National Peace Officers Memorial Day, to honor Peace Officers Memorial Day to tribute to local, state, and federal law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice or been injured in the line of duty.On October 1, 1961, Congress asked President John F. Kennedy to designate May 15th as a day to honor peace officers. In 1962, President Kennedy issued the declaration for Peace Officers Memorial Day to be observed on May 15th and the week of May 15th to be recognized as National Police Week.In 1994, Bill Clinton made an amendment through Public Law 103-322 that directed the United States flag to be flown at half-staff on May 15th in honor of the day.We can observe the National Peace Officers Memori... 05/15/2025

Posts Just For You - This Week at ActiveRain May 11 to May 17, 2025 Every day there is something to learn here at ActiveRain.  With this series, I highlight posts that gave me that lightbulb moment. It could be something techie, a post about Real Estate or other professions, about a place, or a person. Or, it could be a post that made me sit up and take notice! May 11: Leanne Smith    Make Time for Relationships, You May Be SurprisedIt’s been said before but Leanne’s story is a good example of this! Dorie Dillard 50 for 50: Erika's Midnight Miles of MagicI love this!!! All I did was go to Disney World when I turned 50!   Joe Mojica They Might Be Small in Size, Don't Throw Them AwayOops...I've been tossing mine but not any more.   May 12: Dr. Paula McDonald Why Your Feedback MattersI've ... 05/18/2025

Most everybody knows the quote from the song 'Beautiful Boy' by John Lennon, "Life is what happens when we are making other plans".   ​ Actually Allen Saunders  stated "Life is what happens to us while we are making other plans" in a 1957 issue of Reader's Digest. This quote is mistakenly attributed to John​ but it is a good quote worth thinking about.    ​Everything Changes. Buddhism​ teaches that accepting change is a central concept, deeply intertwined with the understanding of impermanence​.  By embracing the natural flow of change, ​we can experience a greater sense of peace and  freedom ​. This acceptance involves recognizing that nothing is permanent and that change is an inherent part of existence​. So many times, many of us resist change and find out later that the change was ... 05/14/2025

Sandpoint Realty 'Friday Flag' being shown with a different perspective this week.  With North Idaho spring projects getting started, non rain windows permitting, I am doing a dual purpose 'Friday Flag'.I have long professed the biggest ROI, with the least amount of money spent, is in painting.  While much more work to be done at the porch, I believe these before and after shots, of 'Ole Glory', clearly show how much better everything is with a fresh coat of paint.   Enjoy your weekend North Idaho.  Be safe, stay healthy!  'Experience the Difference' in working with a full time Professional Sandpoint Realty REALTOR® Your wants and needs will always be my priorities.  Mark Don McInnesBroker - Owner208 255-6227SandpointNorthIdaho.com - North Idaho Home & Land SearchesSandpoint Realty LLC1... 05/16/2025