ActiveRain Community

The Smallest of Gestures About year ago, I discovered that a past client‘s wife had received the scariest news. She was diagnosed with stomach cancer, and at that time, the prognosis was not good. They both prayed (I prayed), then she decided to get the necessary treatment to live longer. After almost 12-months of aggressive therapy, the tests came back negative, she was cancer-free! Once finding that out and making sure they were home, I went out and bought a small flower arrangement and a celebratory card. I dropped it at the front door, then texted, rather than engaging because I knew it was a very emotional time for them both. It was a selfless act, one that was done from the heart and with good intentions. You never know when a small gesture can make a huge impact.  The power of fl... 01/09/2025

January planning for 2025.I plan to continue my current activities: listing, selling, advertising, blogging, and hosting my weekly live radio show. After three and a half decades, I do not have a formal business plan, but I am excited to make real estate even more enjoyable.How? By learning more about AI.  I got the AI bug bite from our Tuesday Zooms.We started with an assignment: an image in a house's window. Then, we went down the rabbit hole to add, watch, and listen to those who have embraced this fun technology.Does anyone remember when we were scared 'spitless' to use anything other than our original photos?That was thanks to Lenn Harley, who had an attorney who made sure no one was using her map images. And if they were, they were in big trouble. Yep, we were scared spitless. Thi... 01/09/2025

Establishing regular habits for eating, sleeping, and daily activities helps the body regulate its biological rhythms, leading to improved energy levels, digestion, and overall well-being. When we honor our body’s need for routine, we create a stable environment that supports physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance, ultimately contributing to a longer, healthier life.​​Incorporate the RATE APP's personal wellness classes into your routine and start living your best life! https://z6u9c.app.link/1YQfJI8pByb  #ThankfulTips #DailyPositivity #DailyPositivity2025 #PositivityQuote #PositivityQuotes #GuaranteedRate #Mortgage #MortgageLender #Atlanta #AtlantaMortgage #AlabamaMortgage #ArizonaMortgage #ArkansasMortgage #CaliforniaMortgage #ColoradoMortgage #FloridaMortgage #Georgia... 01/09/2025

Make intentional, healthy choices to care for your body, mind, and soul, creating balance and well-being. ​​Daily Tip:Take a moment to reflect on your choices today, whether you're opting for a nutritious meal, engaging in a calming activity like meditation, or spending time doing something you love to nurture your well-being. ​​Rate App Feature of the Day:  ​Start the year with this 15-minute session focusing on yoga poses that gently stretch and awaken your body. Create space for the energy of a fresh beginning on the RATE APP. https://z6u9c.app.link/1YQfJI8pByb  #TuesdayTips #DailyPositivity #DailyPositivity2025 #PositivityQuote #PositivityQuotes #GuaranteedRate #Mortgage #MortgageLender #Atlanta #AtlantaMortgage #AlabamaMortgage #ArizonaMortgage #ArkansasMortgage #CaliforniaMortgage... 01/14/2025

Is January A Good Time To Visit Destin FloridaIs life bringing you to Destin Florida this January? Got thoughts of closed shops and snow covered tumbleweeds and a bunch of TV? Let's take a look at why an early in the year trip to the Emerald Coast can be a great idea. 1) Accommodations are cheaper this time of year-- Condo rentals are a fraction of what a guest would pay in peak season. Most of the larger resorts will have hot tubs and at least one heated swimming pool. 2) Many restaurants have off season specials-- For example, Louisiana Lagniappe has a "two can dine for 59 with wine" special. During summer that same feast would approach 200 bucks! 3) Less crowds/traffic--guests visiting the Emerald Coast will have plenty of elbow room. The city is build to handle a MASSIVE influx of v... 01/09/2025

📚Listen for our FREE BOOK give-away!📚I had the privilege of interviewing Jason Silver, and it was nothing short of extraordinary! 🌟Jason’s journey, wisdom, and actionable insights are exactly what leaders and teams need to thrive in today’s world. From his days at Airbnb to advising billion-dollar startups, he shared so much valuable knowledge that I couldn’t wait to share with you all. 🚀Here are the highlights from our conversation: "Enjoyment is actually the fuel for success. The more you enjoy what you're doing, the better you’ll do at it." 😊 This quote struck a chord. When was the last time you truly enjoyed your work? Jason shared how he helps CEOs and teams overcome their toughest challenges. His secret? Fresh perspectives and clear, actionable next steps. 💡 "Your tools to thrive ... 01/09/2025

Homes For Sale In Destin Florida--Price ReducedSearching for a terrific deal on a home in Destin Florida? Need great location, plenty of square footage and a great price? If so, 4497 Clipper Cove, Destin Florida should be on your must see list. Let's take a closer look!  3 Bedroom Home For Sale In Crystal Beach Destin Florida OverviewMapsPhotos $1,050,000 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms2 Full Bathrooms1 UnitInterior: 1,805 sqftLot: 4,800 sqftYear Built: 1996MLS #: 962676 Location 4497 Clipper CoveDestin, FL 32541USA Doug Rogers RE/MAX Coastal Properties(318) 613-1994dougsoldit@gmail.comhttp://www.FloridaCondoHunter.com   Listed by: RE/MAX Coastal Properties Our recent listings 3 Bedroom Home For Sale In Crystal Beach Destin Florida | $1,050,000 | Destin, FL2 Bedroom Townhome... 01/09/2025

 Emergency Preparedness Plan. Do you have one? If not here is a short one for you to consider.Thanks to the Pacific Palisades Fires, I thought I would share here an emergency preparedness plan for all to consider.As the Wildfires are just out of control here in the greater Los Angeles area, Diane asked if we should put together our emergency plan. I must admit she was right, especially since we have not updated out emergency kits in about ten years.Keep in mind we should have, because we also live in Earthquake Country. I did not feel like doing the big action plan tonight, so I talked her out of it. Needless to say, next couple days we will get right on it.So, with that said, this not only applies to Los Angeles, CA residents but everyone should have an emergency plan and kit to take w... 01/09/2025

Posts Just For You- This Week at ActiveRain January 5 to January 11, 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! January 5: Rocky Dickerson Begin With the End in Mind-January 2025 ChallengeGive this a try!!! I used to try this with my sales consultants! January 6: Nick Vandekar What, that wasn't included in the sale of the home?A good reminder to spell it out for your buyers!!  June Piper-Brandon Returning to College or University This MonthWith the shortage in college or university housing, this is an interesting idea.  January 7:  ... 01/12/2025

I am so excited about my #2 goal for 2025!  As most of you know I've been an avid hiker, golfer, sports gal all my life.  Moving and being active brings me great pleasure as well as a sense of well being.  With that said, that all came to a drop dead end starting last December. I spent a great deal of the year healing from a medical mistake made which turned into a year of kind of one thing leading to another for me and that wasn't 'fun'. That is done!  I say DONE!  I was at my final lap of healing from SI joint surgery  which I had at the end or October.  I had almost healed just before Christmas. But then alas, we got hit by a crazy driver and that sent me back a bit. Well maybe more than a bit.  But day by day I trusted I would get  my mojo back however I needed to. Period. And here ... 01/08/2025

I get asked this question sometimes and it deserves some scrutiny.  As soon as we get our real estate license, your orientation and initiation class at your new brokerage pounds only one thing into your head….SELL, SELL, SELL!  You are taught that you must make sales to be successful.  They teach how to do sales presentations, make cold calls, go door knocking, buying leads, rehearse conversions with FSBOs, etc.  But rather than focus on sales, SRES® agents use compassion, empathy, and support to help their client solve their problems, manage their future, and teach them how understand topics that will affect them, their families, and loved ones.  It’s really all about love.  Sometimes you will have to do work for which you will not be paid.If an agent lives by these principles, the bus... 01/08/2025

Candor remains of the highest value and when introduced by human beings dominates the circumstances, becomes the focus and lights the way so that all benefit and prosper from the hearing and the doing of it. It is not rare or uncommon, yet it is simple and carefree and answers to its own dynamics and principals. You practice this & what you can expect is EVERYTHING!CANDOR definedThe quality of being open and honest, frankness, sincerity, candidness, unreserved, sincere and real expression, forthrightness, impartiality, obsolete purity or brightness are the many definitions that welcome this word like trumpets announcing the arrival of a king. What a beautiful word and if it was a vitamin or a mineral, it would be packed with nutrients and nourishment galore!SOOTHING TO THE SIGHT AND SOU... 01/08/2025

Common Reasons Why Homes Fail To SellFor both home owner and real estate agent there are few things more exciting than a new listing. With lockbox on the door and sign firmly in the ground. All that's left is schedule a few showings and go over offers! Then crickets, few/if any showings and weeks on the market morph into months. Let's examine some of the key reasons for a home listing to expire...1) Sellers testing the market-- This is the old, "I don't need to sell but If I can get a certain amount I will." We see this a bunch in our vacation market. Since most are investment properties, why not sell if the price is right? When the seller can't get the inflated figure, often times they will cancel the listing or let it expire. 2) Not responding to market feedback--After each and every ... 01/08/2025

In The Woodlands, cleaning businesses in 77375 are revolutionizing service options with tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and outdoor spaces. Offering complete packages, these services cater to a variety of needs with flexible pricing structures, including affordable flat rates and hourly plans, ensuring something suitable for every budget. Professionalism is at the forefront, guaranteeing high-quality standards and respect for your property. These businesses prioritize sustainable practices, which not only improve indoor air quality but also protect the environment, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious clients.Whether you're looking for routine cleaning, deep-cleaning services, or outdoor maintenance, cleaning businesses in 77375 deliver customizable plans to... 01/08/2025

Our purpose is to support and uplift one another, not live solely for ourselves. It's about connection, compassion, and contributing to the well-being of those around us. ​​Daily Tip:Perform a small act of kindness for someone today, whether it's offering a smile, lending a helping hand, or simply listening, because it nurtures both their well-being and your own. ​​Rate App Feature of the Day:  ​Start a new chapter off right with this relaxing guided meditation. Grab a mat, and let's get started on the RATE APP. https://z6u9c.app.link/1YQfJI8pByb  #WednesdayWellness #WellnessWednesday #DailyPositivity #DailyPositivity2025 #PositivityQuote #PositivityQuotes #GuaranteedRate #Mortgage #MortgageLender #Atlanta #AtlantaMortgage #AlabamaMortgage #ArizonaMortgage #ArkansasMortgage #CaliforniaM... 01/08/2025

If you find yourself overwhelmed by tax debt and struggling to make ends meet, you might be eligible for what the IRS calls uncollectible status, or Currently Not Collectible (CNC). This designation can provide temporary relief by halting collection efforts, but obtaining it isn't as straightforward as it seems. You'll need to navigate a specific process, including demonstrating your financial hardship and submitting detailed documentation. Understanding the steps and requirements especially if you want to ensure your status remains intact. So, what does it take to initiate this process effectively?Understanding Uncollectible StatusWhen you face financial hardship, understanding your uncollectible status. This status means the IRS recognizes you're unable to pay your tax debt at the mom... 01/08/2025

Real Estate Sales Advice- Listings Are An Agent's Best FriendI remember being in real estate school watching episodes of House Hunters (the early seasons where sometimes the couple wouldn't buy nothing) and thinking wow! I'm going to work with buyers. Forget about the expense and drama of listings, let's just help folks shop. After some deals under my belt, I shifted to more of a listing agent. Let's take a look at some of the benefits on this side of the table...1) Listings are less time consuming-- As an independent contractor time is your most valuable asset. There was a study I cannot recall well enough to quote, but the listing side had a fraction of the time commitment verse the buyer end of the deal. In a vacation market like mine this is more pronounced. It's not uncommon to mea... 01/08/2025

Things not going well for you? Are you being willful & over-doing it? How about domineering tactics to ensure you get your way or item. What I am going to share brings the subject home, where it belongs AND where it hides. Keep in mind, this is something we picked up & was not part of the original creation planningTREAT OTHERS the WAY YOU WANT TO BE TREATEDSimply put: whatever measure you decide is appropriate on another, at the time, you just decided what is appropriate for you too in Spiritual realms. This is Universal law & not some catchy phrase. Go slow here & pause often. There is a lot going on. TAKE THAT YOU VARMINTYou have been slighted, attacked, abused, mistreated & just plain HURT & it is your turn to react or to respond. If you chose to respond, pause, gather yourself or ti... 01/16/2025

Get Ready To Buy a Home in 2025 in Miami-Dade FloridaSome Highlights If buying a home is on your goal sheet this year, here’s how to make it happen. Focus on improving your credit, planning for your down payment, getting pre-approved, and prioritizing your wish list. But first, connect with a trusted agent and lender so you have expert advice every step of the way. #RealEstateMiami #SouthFloridaRealEstate #miamidade #HomeForSaleNorthMiamiBeach #NorthMiamiRealEstate #Realtor #houseexpert #househunting #realestate #home #RealEstateBroker #RealEstateExpert #RealEstateForSale #Realty #Broker #HomeForSale #HouseForSale #PropertyForSale #HomeForSaleMiami #Duplex #HomeForSaleSouthFlorida #MiamiBeachRealEstate #HomeForSaleMiamiBeach #HomeForSaleNorthMiamiBeachCheck out homes for sale in Miami-D... 01/08/2025

So…What About Those Points?!   Yesterday, ROBERT THIBODEAU II asked in the Q&A how to earn points faster on ActiveRain. Many were kind enough to respond and ActiveRain Member Support provided a link outlining the points. Most of us who’ve been here a bit don’t think about points anymore. When I started, I had no idea that points were involved. It was months before I realized it.    However, it’s understandable and reasonable for those starting here, for points take on a life of their own.    For what it’s worth here is my suggestion: Ask yourself why you’re here.  Is your intention to use the platform to link to from your primary Social Media platform or website  or do you hope to learn from others here, to share your knowledge, to establish relationships that may lead to referrals, an... 01/07/2025