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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 Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
 Here is my weekly market update for residential resale homes in Burlington Township, New Jersey. New Listings                         3Total Active                           17New Pending                       1Total Closed                         0Average Sales Price          N/AWhat do these numbers mean?While listing volume is up in certain parts of Burlington and New Jersey, that certainly is NOT the case here, which makes finding a home here more difficult, and selling your home a lot easier.For info on how this may impact you, please contact me for a no-obligation consultation.   (609) 864-8164.https://michaelelliott.fathomrealty.com/ 
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By Nancy Braun, Professional Service, Personally Delivered
(Showcase Realty LLC)
The Charlotte housing market has changed recently. Before, prices kept increasing constantly, but now, it is a more varied landscape. Some places are experiencing price increases, while others are witnessing price decreases.  This is different from the previous trend because prices just kept increasing.  We want to help you know why this change is happening. This knowledge can help you make decisions when buying or selling a home in Charlotte, NC.  Will Housing Prices Fall in Charlotte, NC?  The prices are changing in different parts of Charlotte. Some areas that used to cost a lot in 2021 and 2022 are now getting cheaper. But in other parts, the prices are going up.  Around June 2023, house prices in Charlotte were expensive, about $425,000 on average. That’s a big jump of 5.1% from ho...
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By Nancy Braun, Professional Service, Personally Delivered
(Showcase Realty LLC)
Charlotte has many different neighborhoods. Some neighborhoods feel old and historic, while others are modern. These neighborhoods show how Charlotte keeps growing and changing over time.  This guide discusses how these neighborhoods are changing and what makes them unique. We’ll learn about what’s special in each area and why they appeal to residents.  Find the right neighborhood with this guide, whether you like old-style, modern, or a blend of both.  Is Charlotte NC Up and Coming? Charlotte Regional Business Alliance found that many people are moving here in Charlotte.  About 113 people picked Charlotte as their new home every day between 2021 and 2022. That’s a significant number! It shows that many people favor Charlotte’s living environment. Charlotte is getting more new residents...
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By Nancy Braun, Professional Service, Personally Delivered
(Showcase Realty LLC)
Now is a great time to sell your home! With experts like Nancy Braun, you can make the most of this seller’s market.  This guide is your source for selling your home in Charlotte. The real estate market is changing, but right now, there are a lot of people searching for homes to buy.   You need to follow tips to guarantee a fast and profitable sale. These include finding the right agent, enhancing curb appeal, or making prompt repairs. In this article, we'll discuss these tips and more.  How Can I Sell My Home in Charlotte, NC? Selling Your Charlotte Home at the Right Price When you want to sell your home in Charlotte, getting the price right is super important. It makes your sales quick and profitable. But don’t worry. We’ve got tips to help you with this.   Look at Similar Recently So...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
Insider Tips: Buying a Home in PhiladelphiaAre you ready to make your dream of owning a home in Philadelphia a reality? Buying a house in the City of Brotherly Love can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it can also be overwhelming and challenging, especially in today's unpredictable housing market. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, understanding the ins and outs of the home-buying process in Philly is crucial to ensure a successful purchase. In this blog, we'll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to buy a house in Philadelphia successfully.In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of buying your dream home in Philadelphia. From understanding the Philly housing market and key factors influencing home prices to prepa...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
Stay Alert: Red Flags to Look Out for First-Time Homebuyers As a first-time homebuyer, you may be excited and eager to find your dream home. However, it's important to approach the homebuying process with caution and stay alert for any potential red flags. Recognizing these red flags can help you avoid costly repairs and ensure that your new home is safe and structurally sound. In this blog, we will discuss key red flags that every first-time homebuyer should be aware of, as well as provide guidance on how to navigate home inspection findings and consider the legal and financial implications of purchasing a home. By staying alert and informed, you can make a confident and informed decision when buying your first home. Red Flags to Look Out for First Time HomebuyersWhen buying a house, ...
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By Bo Zivak, Nashville Real Estate Broker
(Zivak Realty Group)
Selecting the perfect home builder stands out as a pivotal decision you'll face on your path to owning a home in Nashville, Tennessee. Given the vibrant real estate market and diverse neighborhoods in the city, it becomes imperative to find a trustworthy and dependable builder who can turn your dream home into reality. Delving into this guide will shed light on the essential aspects to ponder while picking a home builder in Nashville, accompanied by insightful tips to aid you in making an educated choice.Pin down Your Requirements and PreferencesBefore delving into the quest for a home builder, take a moment to outline your needs, desires, and financial boundaries. Reflect on aspects like the style of residence you crave (e.g., Luxury Single Family Homes in Nashville TN), favored locati...
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On April 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide housing building permits down 4.3% to 1,458,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,423,000 units in February of 2024, but higher 1.5% from 1,437,000 in March of 2023. Single family building permits declined 5.7% to a rate of 973,000 units in March of 2024, from 1,032,000 units in February of 2024, and there were 433,000 multifamily building permits issued in March of 2024.Nationwide housing starts dropped 14.7% to 1,321,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,549,000 units in February of 2024 and lower 4.3% from 1,380,000 units in March of 2023. Single family starts decreased 12.4% to a rate of 1,022,000 units in March of 2024 from 1,167,000 in February of 2024, and there were 290...
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By Kukun's VP of Analytics Franklin Carroll, Elite client engagement tools and proptech
(Kukun, Inc.)
Many of you might be trying to pad your income by doing more BPOs. As a result, you might be interested in appraisal-related topics. So, I decided the post below, originally aimed at appraisers, might be interesting. Of course, if you really want to be able to churn out BPOs, consider looking up your properties on Kukun's website. We offer an AVM value as well as comps. And, of course, we can give you and your agents access to our API if you want adjustments and more. Visit us at www.kukun.aiA valuable appraisal podcast should offer a combination of informative content, industry insights, practical tips, and expert interviews. It should cover a range of topics relevant to real estate appraisers, including appraisal techniques, market analysis, regulatory updates, business strategies, an...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
   Central Ohio Housing Report — March 2024 Three months into 2024, closings, new listings, and median sales prices are up over 2023.   Sortable Housing Statistics Central Ohio Housing Statistics   Closed sales saw a slight dip year-over-year. Still, median sales price, new listings, and total inventory all saw gains in the latest housing statistics provided by Columbus REALTORS®.   In March, 2,218 closed sales were recorded in the Columbus and Central Ohio Regional MLS, a 3.7 percent decrease over March 2023. However, sales were up 15.8 percent compared to last month. There were 1,915 closed sales in February 2024.   “The first three months of the year have shown us that we’re on the cusp of a busy spring selling season in central Ohio,” said Columbus REALTORS® President Scott Hrabcak....
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By Andrew Lesa, I help investors & consumers with real estate
(Real Estate Agent with Realtor)
In the dynamic realm of Dubai's real estate market, where relationships are paramount and competition is fierce, professionals are constantly seeking ways to stand out and foster lasting connections. Among the various strategies employed, the significance of corporate gifting cannot be overstated. Corporate gifts serve as tangible expressions of appreciation, fostering goodwill and strengthening ties between parties involved in real estate transactions. In this article, we delve into the profound impact of corporate gifts on navigating business relationships within Dubai's vibrant real estate landscape.highlighting the importance of thoughtful and culturally appropriate corporate gifts in Dubai.Building Trust and RapportAt the core of every successful real estate transaction lies trust ...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
This has happened to me countless times, so I am certain you have also experienced this, too.You are in public, perhaps in a restaurant,  and somehow, along with the clanging of the silverwear and multiple other conversations, you hear from many tables away, one of these words, or similar are spoken, and you stop eating:Realtor.  Real estate agent.  Houses.  Appreciation.  Time to sell.   Multiple offers.  Relocating.  Downsize.  Mortgage rates.   Neighbor sold for...What do you do?  Do you ignore them, or do you listen more intently?  Do you chime in, interjecting yourself into their conversation?  Do you sheepishly admit that you overheard them, and hand them a business card?Or do you do nothing?https://michaelelliott.fathomrealty.com/
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By Kukun's VP of Analytics Franklin Carroll, Elite client engagement tools and proptech
(Kukun, Inc.)
We're thrilled to announce that Kukun, your trusted partner in real estate analytics and customer engagement tools, has been selected to participate in the prestigious 2024 REACH program by Second Century Ventures, the strategic investment arm of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR). You can find their official website here: NAR ReachWhat is the REACH program, you might ask? Well, it's a groundbreaking initiative launched in 2013, aimed at accelerating technology solutions for the U.S. residential real estate sector. And let us tell you, being a part of it is very exciting indeed.Here's why Kukun's inclusion in the 2024 REACH program is such a big deal:1. Driving Innovation at the Intersection of Tech and Real Estate: At Kukun, we're all about pushing the boundaries of what's pos...
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By Joe Jackson, Clintonville and Central Ohio Real Estate Expert
(Keller Williams Capital Partners Realty)
Informative read! Leveraging a mortgage effectively can be key to financial success. This blog likely offers expert tips for maximizing the benefits of a mortgage. Looking forward to learning more about leveraging mortgages like a pro!Have a super fantastic week!Joe Jackson, Realtor-KWCP How to Leverage a Mortgage Effectively Key Highlights Mortgage leverage is a powerful tool that allows real estate investors to use debt and equity to purchase investment properties and increase their return on investment. By leveraging the equity in one property, investors can use it as a down payment or collateral to secure for additional properties. The benefits of using mortgage leverage include the ability to pay off debt quicker, take advantage of housing market opportunities, consolidate debt, in...
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By Christopher Nelson, Montgomery County, PA - Realtor
(GenStone Realty)
How to Leverage a Mortgage EffectivelyKey Highlights Mortgage leverage is a powerful tool that allows real estate investors to use debt and equity to purchase investment properties and increase their return on investment. By leveraging the equity in one property, investors can use it as a down payment or collateral to secure for additional properties. The benefits of using mortgage leverage include the ability to pay off debt quicker, take advantage of housing market opportunities, consolidate debt, increase buying power, and have easier loan approval. However, there are also risks associated with mortgage leverage, such as putting the original property at risk, incurring closing costs, paying more in total for the loan, and managing multiple mortgage payments. Real estate leverage can ...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
I have had a lot of experience with dual agency.  An awful lot.  Well over 100 transactions, personally.  Most were flawless, but some not so much.  The only time an agent can typically be accused of favoring the other side, in my experience, is in a dual agency situation. For those who are not familiar with the term, dual agency  (In New Jersey) is when the same brokerage  represents both buyer and seller.  I am not referring to that.  I am referring to single agent dual agency, where the same agent represents both buyer and seller.  Of course, dual agency must be agreed to in writing, and explained by the sales person / agent. Keeping both clients very happy during the transaction is extremely difficult, as so many think that during a conflict or challenge, you may have taken the othe...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
Houston, Texas, offers a compelling mix of opportunity, diversity, and lifestyle that makes it a top choice for people considering a new place to live. Known for its strong economic foundations, vibrant cultural life, and friendly atmosphere, Houston is more than just a large city—it's a place to call home. Here's an expanded look at the many reasons why moving to Houston is a great idea.1. Strong Job MarketHouston's economy is robust and diverse. The city leads globally in the energy sector, with a significant focus on both traditional oil and gas industries and renewable energy innovations. The Texas Medical Center stands as a beacon in healthcare, hosting over 60 medical institutions and receiving millions of patient visits each year. The aerospace sector is another cornerstone, with...
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This is a blog I posted on my corporate page yesterday with the latest from Fannie and Freddie.  Its good news and FHA and VA are expected to treat things the same way.  In reality we wont know everything until the DOJ decides but here is what we know:   Yesterday, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac clarified questions about the payment of real estate agent commissions. These questions were brought up shortly after the nationwide settlement agreement proposed by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR). The updates are largely aligned with the previous statement that the FHA published on March 28, 2024, which confirmed that there will be no changes to seller-paid buyer agent fees at this time.Commission Policy UpdatesUnder the existing Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac policies, the buyer agent fee...
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By Michael Elliott, Burlington, New Jersey Residential Sales
(Fathom Realty)
Most residential resale real estate agents are paid commission-only.   While there a couple of models out there they pay salary plus bonus, they are the exception.Most commission only agents also pay their own expenses, including: MLS fees License fees Realtors dues Continuing education fees Seminar fees Errors & Omissions Insurance Broker fees Some pay franchise fees (I do not) Postage, printing, all office equipment and supplies All auto, gas and insurances All signage costs (For sale, open house, riders, posts, install fees) Lockboxes and electronic lockbox app fees Photography and floor plans Property flyers Marketing Website and website enhancements Advertising Market reports and educational subscriptions Office expenses Ink, paper, printing, supplies, postage, marketing costs, mai...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
What are the major things to look for when house hunting? 🤔𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧!📍Look for proximity to amenities like schools, shopping centers, parks, and public transportation.Think about your daily needs and lifestyle preferences to determine if the location aligns with your requirements.𝐓𝐡𝐞 “𝐛𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐬” 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 🦴Assess the structural integrity of the property.Look for signs of water damage, cracks in the foundation or walls, uneven floors, or sagging ceilings.𝐒𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐭 🏡Evaluate if the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces meet your current and future needs.𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐯𝐚𝐥𝐮𝐞 📈While it may not be your immediate concern, it’s wise to consider the potential resale value of the property.When we tour houses, I’ll be looking out for these things as well so we can discu...
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