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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)
Enhancing your home exterior can boost property value, curb appeal, and functionality. It can also help create a lasting and welcoming impression. If you’re looking for ways to optimize your exterior and make it more stylish, efficient, and attractive, this article is for you. Assessing Current Exterior ConditionsThe first step toward a successful exterior upgrade is evaluating the current state of your home’s exterior. Perform a thorough walkthrough to inspect your property’s outdoor spaces. Identify key areas that may need immediate attention, such as roofing, siding, landscaping, and entryways.  Does your yard need sprucing up, or must you replace your roof or garage door? If you live in Texas and need a garage door replacement, consider selecting a trusted provider like DFW Overhead...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
In the competitive world of real estate, where the speed of information and engagement can make or break a deal, modern marketing tools have become essential. Among these tools, QR codes stand out as a powerful way to connect potential buyers and renters with vital property details in real-time. With the ability togenerate QR code and embed key information, real estate agents can create dynamic, interactive marketing materials that drive faster and more efficient conversions.The Role of QR Codes in Real EstateGone are the days of printed brochures and static listings. Today, potential buyers want instant access to comprehensive property details, video tours, floor plans, and nearby amenities. QR tags deliver this seamlessly. By simply scanning a QR label on a “For Sale” sign, brochure, ...
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By Lori Mode, Real Estate Made Simple
(The Mode Real Estate Group)
Why Smart Buyers Get Pre-Approved Before SpringBuying a home isn’t just about finding the perfect property—it’s about setting yourself up for success from the very beginning. With the spring market right around the corner, now is the time for serious buyers to get pre-approved.Why Does Pre-Approval Matter?The real estate market heats up in the spring, with more buyers competing for the same homes. If you’re not prepared, you could miss out on your dream home. Here’s why getting pre-approved now gives you a competitive edge:✔️ Sellers Will Take You SeriouslyWhen you submit an offer with a pre-approval letter, sellers know you’re financially ready to buy. In a multiple-offer situation, this can make all the difference.✔️ You’ll Know Exactly What You Can AffordA pre-approval helps you unde...
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By Kwag Lee, SBLC Provider and Bank Guarantee Provider
(Artley Finance (HK) Limited)
Artley Finance (HK) Limited, a leading trade finance specialist and international project financier, has successfully arranged €284 million in financing for the Baltica 5 offshore wind farm project (1,170 MW) in Poland. This financing, secured through a Standby Letter of Credit (SBLC), underscores Artley Finance’s commitment to providing innovative and secured financial solutions for major infrastructure and energy projects. Securing Poland’s Renewable FutureThe Baltica 5 offshore wind farm, sponsored by Polish energy firm PGR, will be a significant addition to Poland’s renewable energy infrastructure. Set to be operational by 2028, the project will utilize the Gdańsk Port for storage, pre-assembly, and offshore installation of wind turbine components, reinforcing Poland’s push toward s...
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By Kwag Lee, SBLC Provider and Bank Guarantee Provider
(Artley Finance (HK) Limited)
Artley Finance (HK) Limited, incorporated on August 6, 1982 (Company Registration No. 0115070), is a globally recognized SBLC provider, trade finance specialist, and bank guarantee provider. With over 43 years of experience, we have successfully concluded more than 98,000 deals worldwide, earning the trust of businesses, SMEs, and individuals. Our financial instruments, including Standby Letters of Credit (SBLC) and Bank Guarantees (BG), are issued by top-rated banks such as HSBC, Barclays, Citibank, and Deutsche Bank ensuring financial security for businesses worldwide. As a leading bank guarantee funding and SBLC monetization company, we offer a comprehensive suite of financial services, including trade finance, business loans, investments, wealth management, and international project...
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By Lew Corcoran, Expert guidance. Exceptional results.
(Better Living Real Estate, LLC)
Honored to be Nominated Among Influential Stagers in 2025 Introduction Have you ever wondered what truly makes a home stand out in the crowded real estate market? For me, the secret lies in effective staging. A well-staged home doesn’t just look good; it evokes emotions and allows buyers to picture themselves living in their future there.  And I'm thrilled to share that I've been nominated as one of the Most Influential People in Real Estate Staging for 2025! My Path as a Transformative Visionary As a licensed real estate agent, certified home stager, professional photographer, and licensed drone pilot, I’ve worked to bring a unique perspective to the industry. I’ve learned that real estate isn’t just about buying and selling homes; it’s about crafting experiences.  My journey really to...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
Today is National Home Warranty Day! Home warranties became popular in the 1990’s, the first one that I ever heard of was the 2/10 Home Warranty. Once purchasing a home, I came to realize the value that a good home warranty brings. Our washing machine motor quit working, and ladies, (I refuse ot go to the public laundromats for many reasons)! Total cost was $60 for a new one to be installed, no questions asked.Here's why you might consider getting one:Protects Against Repairs: A home warranty can cover the majority of high ticket items such as: refrigerators, stoves, dishwashers, heating & cooling sysyems. Instead of paying for total cost, a small fee is paid.
 Provides Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a home warranty can provide peace of mind, especially items that are most prone to fai...
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By Kwag Lee, SBLC Provider and Bank Guarantee Provider
(Artley Finance (HK) Limited)
Bank Financial Instrument Providers – Who Are They?Bank Financial Instrument Providers, such as Artley Finance (HK) Limited, issue bank instruments like Bank Guarantees (BG) and Standby Letters of Credit (SBLC). These instruments ensure transaction security and trust, especially when creditworthiness is uncertain.What Defines a Genuine Bank Financial Instrument Provider?A legitimate provider must be licensed and compliant with financial regulations. Reputable firms offer security, liquidity, and credit enhancement to support global trade and business growth. Key qualities include transparency, strong banking partnerships, and regulatory adherence.Why Choose Artley Finance (HK) Limited?Artley Finance (HK) Limited is a globally trusted SBLC provider and bank guarantee provider, partnering...
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By Paddy Deighan MBA JD PhD, Paddy Deighan J.D. Ph.D
(http://www.medicalandspaconsulting.com)
I never knew this factoid....but history has an interesting pattern when it comes to real estate...After every presidential inauguration since 1960, there has been a surge in real estate activity during the following 12-24 months.It is postulated that this is due to the presumption that new administrations typically implement policies aimed at economic growth. It seems that it does not matter whether the growth is real or speculative. This creates a unique "window of opportunity for everyday Americans" .  So I am curious whether 'Rain members have seen this? It would be hard to deny this trend given a 65 year track record. So  whattya think??
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Astoria, Queens, is a fantastic place to live. Many fall in love with this community because it offers a wonderful blend of city life and neighborhood charm. Let us take a close look at why so many people love calling Astoria home and who knows you may even want to contact a real estate agent after the read. A Melting Pot of Cultures Astoria is known for its incredible diversity. This is because you will find people from all over the world living here. Because so many cultures blend together, this community is vibrant. Greek, Italian, and Brazilian cultures are particularly prominent. Because of this, you can find authentic restaurants and shops representing these cultures throughout Astoria. This mix of cultures adds a special flavor to the neighborhood, and it makes Astoria a truly gl...
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By Jan Green - Scottsdale, AZ, HomeSmart Elite Group, REALTOR®, EcoBroker, GREEN
(Value Added Service, 602-620-2699)
We all see human interest stories besides all of the regular industry reading common in most professions.   Lately, news has become negative so a lot of us have tuned out teh news.  But recently, good news was delivered courtesy of "This Old House" and reprinted by the Phoenix Business Journal.   This was a bright spot and definitely worth sharing!  Apparently, "This Old House" ranked Scottsdale, Arizona as the top city to raise a family.  While the number of households raising families is shrinking, opportunities in Scottsdale have been escalating.  Fascinating news for someone from the Midwest.  The Midwest is often touted as a great place to raise families, so you can imagine that this headline caught my eye!  But I think it's truly a city for everyone, not just families. The article...
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By Barbara S. Duncan, GRI, e-PRO, Executive Broker, Searcy AR
(RE/MAX Advantage)
Tour was so delightful and educational.This historic home is for sale right now and the REALTORS were invited to tour it.  I accepted the invitation and was delighted to see all the historic items still in and around the house.The windows in the house are original.  The tile on the roof  had to be special ordered to be the same type as the original when built in 1924 and designed by Charles Thompson, architect. The Edward Lightle family moved into the house in 1926.  Thus, the name Lightle House.  Notice the wonderful brick work that looks as if it could be around another 100 years!It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.  Go there to read more about the home and to see it.  Howell Realty Pros have the listing and it would be wonderful to have another owner che...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Palm Desert is a top spot for those who want a peaceful holiday. The city has upscale shopping and dining and resort-style living. The warm culture also makes the place a top choice among people looking for a perfect getaway from colder climates. If you are planning to buy a vacation home, below are the key factors to consider.Define Your BudgetBuying a house is a significant investment, and knowing all the purchase costs will assist you in making the right investment. For instance, Palm Desert ranks among cities with higher median listing prices. The price also varies based on the location and size. Understanding upfront and running costs is vital before starting your search.Expect to pay a higher down payment, mainly if you are using a mortgage to buy the house. You should also set as...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
As the construction industry shifts toward more sustainable and environmentally responsible building practices, steel decking has emerged as a crucial component in green construction. Recognized for its durability, recyclability, and efficiency, steel decking supports the goals of sustainable building projects by reducing waste, lowering energy consumption, and enhancing the overall lifecycle performance of structures.What Is Steel Decking?Steel decking refers to a structural component used in commercial and industrial buildings to support roofing systems or concrete slabs in flooring applications. It is made from cold-formed steel and comes in various profiles to provide strength, stability, and load-bearing capacity.Beyond its structural advantages, steel decking plays a pivotal role ...
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On January 16, 2025, National Association of Home Builders/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index (HMI) for newly built single family homes gained one point to 47 points in January of 2025 from 46 points in December of 2024.The HMI component charting present sales conditions higher three points at 51 points, the HMI buyer traffic up two points to 33 points, and the HMI sales expectations index decreased six points to 60 points in January of 2025.The three-month moving averages for regional HMI scores, Northeast grew five points at 60 points, the West down one point at 40 points, South grew one point to 46 points, Midwest down one point to 47 points in January of 2025.NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz, stated “NAHB is forecasting a slight gain for single-family housing starts in 2025, as the m...
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By Bill Salvatore - East Valley, Realtor - 602-999-0952 / em: golfArizona@cox.net
(Arizona Elite Properties )
On February 3, 2025, the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide construction spending higher 0.5% to $2,192.0 billion in December of 2024 from $2,180.3 billion November of 2024, and rose 4.3% from $2,101.3 billion in December of 2023. Nationwide private construction up 0.9% to $1,688.5 billion in December of 2024 from $1,674.1 billion in November of 2024. Residential construction increased 1.5% of $939.5 billion in December of 2024 from $925.5 billion November of 2024. Non residential construction grew 0.1% to $749.0 billion in December of 2024 from $748.6 billion in November of 2024. The public construction declined 0.5% to $503.6 billion in December of 2024 from $506.2 billion in November of 2024. The educational construction lower 0.6% to $109.5 billion in December of 2024 from $110...
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On February 3, 2025, the U.S. Census Bureau reported nationwide construction spending higher 0.5% to $2,192.0 billion in December of 2024 from $2,180.3 billion November of 2024, and rose 4.3% from $2,101.3 billion in December of 2023.Nationwide private construction up 0.9% to $1,688.5 billion in December of 2024 from $1,674.1 billion in November of 2024.Residential construction increased 1.5% of $939.5 billion in December of 2024 from $925.5 billion November of 2024.Non residential construction grew 0.1% to $749.0 billion in December of 2024 from $748.6 billion in November of 2024.The public construction declined 0.5% to $503.6 billion in December of 2024 from $506.2 billion in November of 2024.The educational construction lower 0.6% to $109.5 billion in December of 2024 from $110.2 bil...
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By Jared Hill, ERA Brokers have locations all over the west.
(ERA Brokers)
Selling raw land can be a lucrative opportunity, but it also comes with potential pitfalls that could cost you time, money, and unnecessary stress. If you want to maximize your profits and ensure a smooth transaction, you need to be aware of common mistakes landowners make when selling their property. In this article, we’ll discuss these costly errors and how you can avoid them. We’ll also highlight the benefits of working with cash home buyers to simplify the process and secure a fair deal.1. Overpricing Your LandOne of the biggest mistakes sellers make is overpricing their land. Unlike residential properties, raw land values fluctuate based on location, zoning, and market demand. If you set the price too high, you risk scaring away potential buyers and leaving your property unsold for...
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By Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!, The best agent in Southern Utah!
(Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374)
 Did You Know?   Inside Trading is Legal in Real Estate.  Let's talk about that and how insider trading directly correlates to the real estate industry! Getting out and exchanging information with people in the community, over backyard fences or neighborhood BBQ's can be advantageous. Mrs. Wiggins lives three doors down and is ready to sell the house to move closer to her children. As an insider:   Are you planning to be the one who clinches the listing or let an 'outsider' in, to sell it?   You meet Mr. Burns at the cluster mail box. A recent widower, Bill lives in a large, estate house down the street. The emptiness echoes with every footstep, shuffling from room-to-room. Admitting the children and grands seldom seldom visit because they are busy with their lives, he wants to downsize...
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By Craig Lebrau, Property Geek in Upper East Side NYC
(Lebrau Property)
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage, yet they are often overlooked when it comes to routine maintenance. Many homeowners in Turnersville don’t realise that minor gutter issues can quickly escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. Whether it is clogged drains, leaks, or sagging gutters, neglecting these problems can lead to foundation damage, roof deterioration, and even interior flooding.Investing in expert gutter repair and replacement services can save you thousands of dollars in long-term repairs. A well-maintained gutter system directs rainwater away from your property, preventing water build-up and structural deterioration. In this article, we’ll explore the risks associated with ignoring gutter problems and why timely repair or replacement i...
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