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Real Estate Industry

“All the news that's fit to print,” or to click, as the case may be, can be found right here at your favorite real estate social networking site, ActiveRain. And here you thought it was merely a great place to chat with colleagues and slap up a blog post or two.


We know you're busy – whether it's trying to fill your pipeline or following up on what's already popped out of the bottom of it. Who has time to read? And, while real estate market news geared toward consumers is easy to round up on the Internet, news for brokers and Realtors is a bit harder to come by.


Your friends at ActiveRain understand how important each of those 168 hours in every week is so we've made it easy for you by consolidating everything you need to know to keep up-to-date with the real estate industry right here, in one place.


How are housing starts looking? Has the FHFA launched any new efforts? How's that Fannie and Freddie loan limit rollercoaster doing?


You've got the questions and your colleagues here at AR have the answers. It's at your fingertips – finally.

Recent blogs on Real Estate Industry
By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
The green building movement has transformed from a niche interest into a mainstream expectation in real estate. As sustainability becomes a strategic priority for governments, developers, and consumers, eco-conscious construction is being woven into the fabric of urban development. Energy efficiency, carbon neutrality, and material traceability are not just buzzwords—they are non-negotiables in modern building design. From single-family homes to high-rise commercial properties, green building practices are creating spaces that are healthier for occupants and the environment alike. The real estate sector is under increasing pressure to comply with environmental regulations while meeting buyer and tenant demand for sustainable spaces. Read more about the environmental impact of constructi...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
If you’re in the middle of prepping your home for sale, you’ve probably heard about the basics of decluttering, applying a fresh coat of neutral paint, mowing the lawn, and maybe even baking cookies before an open house. But here’s a curveball: what if wallpaper, yes wallpaper, could help you sell your place faster? It’s making a surprising comeback and doing more than just looking pretty. From bold accent walls to subtle patterns that elevate a room, wallpaper might just be the eye-catching twist your listing needs to stand out. Let’s explore why a few well-placed rolls could be the secret ingredient to attracting the right kind of attention.So, What's the Deal with Wallpaper These Days?Wallpaper isn’t that outdated floral nightmare from the past anymore. It’s made a serious comeback a...
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On April 24, 2025, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that nationwide regional existing home sales in the Northeast gained 2.0% in March of 2025 from of February 2025 to an annual rate 490,000 homes, but unchanged 0.0% from March of 2024. The median price in the Northeast was $468,000 in March 2025, rose 7.7% from March of 2024.Home sales in the Midwest dropped 5.0% in March of 2025 from February of 2025 to an annual rate 950,000 homes, and lower 3.1% from March of 2024. The median price in the Midwest was $302,100 in March of 2025, increased 3.5% from March of 2024.Home sales in the South decreased 5.7% in March of 2025 to an annual rate 1.81 million homes from February of 2025, and declined 2.0% from March of 2024. The median price in the South was $360,400 in March of 2...
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By Marjorie Taylor, New Homes in St. Augustine Florida
(Florida Homes Realty and Mortgage)
You’ve probably heard someone say, “The best time to buy a home was yesterday. The next best time? Today.”It sounds cheesy... but guess what? It’s TRUE.Buying a home is about playing the long game — not trying to hit some "perfect moment" where prices magically drop and rates are dreamy. Spoiler alert: that unicorn moment? It rarely shows up.Here’s what a lot of people don’t realize:The longer you wait, the more buying a home could cost you. And you deserve to know why.Experts (think over 100 serious housing pros who eat market trends for breakfast) are all saying the same thing: home prices are projected to keep rising through at least 2029.Not crazy jumps like we saw during the frenzy years — but a good, solid, healthy 3-4% each year.  Slow and steady wins the race... and builds your ...
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By Peter Mohylsky,, Call me at 850-517-7098
(Property Management International-Destin)
The path to homeownership looks different for everyone, and recent data from the NAR shows just how varied today’s buyers really are.  These trends probably move just a little each year but they also seem to be true to trends.  These shifts reflect changing lifestyles, priorities, and the growing independence of buyers who are making moves on their own terms.It’s a good reminder that your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to be valid—or successful.Give me a call to start yours!#realestate #realestateagent #buying #selling #listreports #realestateexpert #financehub #homeowner
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
This blog offers a well-balanced and insightful look at the pros and cons of owning vs. renting. I love how it breaks down the financial and lifestyle considerations in a clear, relatable way. It's a great resource for anyone weighing their options and trying to make the best decision for their future.    Deciding whether to buy or rent a home? It’s not just about money—it’s about lifestyle, freedom, and long-term goals. Here’s the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of both sides: ✅ The Good: Ownership Means Investment Your monthly payment builds equity, not your landlord’s wealth. You can paint the walls, plant a garden, and make it yours—no permission needed. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability. Rents usually go up—your mortgage usually doesn’t. Tax benefits for mortgage interest and proper...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Historic Florida homes offer character and craftsmanship that new construction simply can't match. From Mediterranean Revival mansions in Coral Gables to Victorian beauties in St. Augustine, these properties have maintained value better than standard homes, appreciating at an average of 5.8% annually over the past decade compared to 4.2% for conventional properties.However, owning a piece of Florida's history comes with unique responsibilities that require careful consideration before purchasing.Understanding Historic DesignationsDifferent historic designations carry different implications. The National Register of Historic Places offers prestige with relatively few restrictions, while local historic district designations typically come with more stringent oversight.These designations o...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
Spring is one of the best times to sell a home—but it also means buyers are seeing everything. First impressions start before they even walk through the front door, so let’s make them count.Here’s what potential buyers notice as soon as they pull up:🧹 Curb Appeal Checklist: Clean Front Entry Sweep the porch Wipe down the front door Replace worn welcome mats Shine up the house numbers Tidy Landscaping Fresh mulch in flower beds Trimmed shrubs and edged walkways Bright spring flowers in pots or beds Exterior Maintenance Power-wash siding and porches Clean windows and glass storm doors Check gutters and roofline for debris or damage Touch up paint on railings, trim, or shutters Driveway & Walkway Appeal Remove weeds or moss Repair cracks or uneven surfaces Clear any clutter (garden tools, ...
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By Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518, Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc.
(Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc)
 Deciding whether to buy or rent a home? It’s not just about money—it’s about lifestyle, freedom, and long-term goals. Here’s the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of both sides:✅ The Good: Ownership Means Investment Your monthly payment builds equity, not your landlord’s wealth. You can paint the walls, plant a garden, and make it yours—no permission needed. Fixed-rate mortgages offer stability. Rents usually go up—your mortgage usually doesn’t. Tax benefits for mortgage interest and property taxes can add up. ⚠️ The Bad: Ownership Comes with Responsibilities You can’t call the landlord when something breaks—you are the landlord. Property taxes, insurance, and maintenance can add up. Moving is harder—you can’t just give 30 days’ notice and pack a suitcase. 😬 The Ugly: Renting Can Feel Like a...
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On April 24, 2025, National Association of Realtors® (NAR) reported that nationwide existing home sales decreased 5.9% to annual rate of 4.02 million homes in March of 2025 from February of 2025, and declined 2.4% from 4.12 million homes from March of 2024.There were 1.33 million homes supplies of available inventory in March of 2025, rose 8.1% from February of 2025, jumped 19.8% from 1.11 million homes in March of 2024.There were 4.0 months available inventory in March of 2025 gained from to 3.5 months in February of 2025, and up from 3.2 months in March of 2024.On average it took 36 days to sell a home in March of 2025, lower from 42 days in February of 2025, but higher from 33 days in March 2024.First time buyers acquired 32.0% of homes in March of 2025, grew from 31.0% in February o...
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By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
Northern Virginia is a mosaic of vibrant communities, each offering unique charms and advantages. Whether you're seeking urban convenience, top-tier schools, or a tranquil suburban retreat, there's a perfect spot waiting for you. Northern Virginia Magazine's 2024 roundup highlights standout neighborhoods tailored to diverse preferences.​🏙️ Most Convenient: Falls Church (22046): Dubbed "The Little City," Falls Church boasts a median home price of $920,000, with homes averaging just 16 days on the market. Its proximity to D.C., a thriving local business district, and top-rated restaurants like 2941 and Ellie Bird make it a commuter's dream. The city also offers extensive trails, including the W&OD Trail, catering to cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts. Tysons (22102): A bustling hub with a m...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Toronto homeowners know that transforming a space doesn’t come cheap—but it doesn’t have to drain your finances either. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen, refreshing your bathrooms, or doing a full-scale remodel, a successful renovation is about smart planning, not just a hefty budget. By approaching your project with clarity, creativity, and control, you can plan a dream-worthy renovation that enhances your home’s value while staying firmly within your financial boundaries.If you're looking for inspiration or want to explore how others have navigated their own upgrades, this guide to the best home renovation in Toronto offers insights on what works and what doesn’t—especially when budgets are tight.1. Define Your Renovation Goals and Priorities EarlyEvery project needs a purpose. B...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Renovating a fitness centre is no small task. Between balancing member expectations, managing operational downtime, and making countless design and infrastructure decisions, gym owners face mounting pressure to get it right. While the DIY route or using general contractors may appear cost-effective at first glance, the real savings—both in time and money—often lie in partnering with professionalfitness center renovators.These specialists understand the unique operational needs of gyms, the wear-and-tear realities of fitness equipment, and the ever-evolving expectations of modern members. Their expertise goes beyond surface-level upgrades and taps into what drives long-term value for your space.Faster Turnaround with Less DowntimeOne of the biggest concerns during any renovation is how l...
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By Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® CRS,ABR,PSA,RCS-D, CFSP, Coastal San Diego, Veteran's & Retirees Services
(Big Block LPT Realty 858.232.8722)
Real Estate Is Easy Money: When You Love People and Enjoy Showing Homes 😂🤣😉First of all the only REALTORS® that love people are new agents that haven't had a client yet. 😂🤣😉 I jest, but somedays - isn't this the truth?As usual the wonderful members of Active Rain have inspired my latest post from the Q&A - Thank You Lew Corcoran Many people perceive real estate as a job, but the moment you obtain your license, you are actually investing in your own business—something that only you initially know you opened. To succeed, you must proactively create awareness and communicate your value, or you'll risk becoming part of the 80% of agents who fail to renew their licenses. Real estate is not a solo venture; it thrives on RELATIONSHIPS: networking, coaching, partnerships, and teamwork. It’s a c...
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On April 23, 2025, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide new single family home sales gained 7.4% to an annual rate of 724,000 homes in March of 2025 from 674,000 homes in February of 2025, increased 6.0% from in March of 2024 an annual rate of 683,000 homes.There were estimated 503,000 new houses for sale, up 0.6 from 500,000 homes in February of 2025, and rose 7.9% from 466,000 homes in March of 2024. There were 8.3 months supply of homes in March of 2025, lower 6.7% from 8.9 months supply in February of 2025, but higher 1.2% from 8.2 months in March of 2024.The median new home sold value was $403,600 in March of 2025, down 1.9% from $411,500 in February of 2025, and declined 7.5% from $436,400 in March of 2024. The a...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
In the ever-changing world of real estate, navigating the process of buying or selling a home can be intimidating, even scary. Market conditions can be unpredictable. In addition, the time it takes to sell a property and the potential for negotiations falling through can add stress to what is already an overwhelming experience. This is where the concept of a guaranteed offer can make a real difference, particularly when working with a reputable real estate agency. A Guarantee program takes the risk out of selling or buying a home.Understanding the Guaranteed OfferA guaranteed offer is a commitment from a real estate agency to purchase your home at a predetermined price, within a specified timeframe, regardless of market conditions. This offer provides sellers with the assurance that the...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
Rent vs. Buy: The Great Housing Debate Solved (For You)Making sense of the biggest financial decision you might ever faceWe've all heard the classic advice: "Stop throwing money away on rent and buy a house!" But is homeownership really the financial holy grail everyone makes it out to be? Is renting truly just paying someone else's mortgage? The reality is far more nuanced than most social media posts would have you believe.The True Cost of Housing: It's PersonalThe rent vs. buy decision isn't just about dollars and cents—it's about your unique life circumstances, future plans, and financial readiness. Let's dive into the factors that should actually influence your decision.When Buying Makes SenseBuilding Equity: The Long GameWhen you make mortgage payments, you're gradually purchasing...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Anyone paying attention to the stock market is probably biting their fingernails. The market is all over the place, and investors are getting a little nervous. You may be wondering if it’s a good time to diversify your investment portfolio. Maybe you’re looking at adding some commercial real estate. Did you know the commercial real estate market tends to stay fairly stable? If you’re considering investing, you’re going to need commercial real estate services. So, is commercial real estate a good investment? Here’s a look at some of the reasons you may want to add some property to your portfolio.Potential Benefits of Investing in Commercial Real EstateCommercial real estate (CRE) can give you a steady cash flow. Similar to stock options, CRE investments are structured to deliver regular ...
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By Leanne Smith, The Grit and Gratitude Agent
(Dirt Road Real Estate)
In real estate due the compliance issues along with recent lawsuits and settlements, there are “government testers” contacting real estate agents to ensure adherence to state and federal laws and regulations. Professional real estate agents must be aware of these government testers while not offending potential real estate sellers or buyers.This past week I received a text from a potential sales lead (“retired Air Force individual") who was a small business owner of home use products (nutrition, skin care, etc.) allegedly here in Kingman, AZ. This individual stated he is currently renting and is seeking to buy a house in the Fall of 2025.Here is the last sentence of the first text I received.“All safe and around children (pets) would you and the wife seriously consider using these if we...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Keeping your home clean can feel like an impossible task when juggling a full schedule, especially with kids, pets, or a partner who isn’t always on the same cleaning page. The dishes pile up—the laundry multiplies. And somehow, there's always a mysterious pile of stuff near the front door. While a sparkling, clutter-free home might seem like a far-off dream, it’s more achievable than you think—even with a busy family. The secret lies in smart habits, consistency, and knowing when to ask for help.If you're feeling overwhelmed by the mess and unsure where to start, exploring reliable dumpster options can be a surprising first step toward a cleaner, more manageable home. Clearing out years of accumulated clutter makes it easier to maintain order and gives you a fresh slate from which to w...
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