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Real Estate General Information

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ActiveRain's current content library contains millions of articles. You'll find articles on everything from investing in real estate to what to watch out for when renting. If you can't find what you're looking for, stick around – the pages are updated constantly and new, fresh information is added daily.


If you're in the market to buy, sell, rent, stage or even refinance a home and have questions, congratulations – you've found the mother lode of answers here at ActiveRain!

Recent blogs on Real Estate General Information
By Cora Carleson, Existing homes, new construction, commercial, land
(KELLER WILLIAMS ALASKA GROUP)
Hey Cora, what a simple way, that I can improve the exterior look of my home.  Simple and cheap! Signed simple and cheap,Dear Cheap,Oh honey, pull up a lawn chair and let’s sip on some budget-friendly lemonade while we fix up that home of yours! We’re going to give your place a glow-up that’ll make the neighbors wonder if HGTV finally visited Alaska. Let’s go season by season, shall we? 🌞 Summer – a.k.a. “Front Yard Glow-Up Season” Hanging baskets! You only need a couple to bring the wow. Get some red and yellow blooms (they scream “notice me!”), hang them with cheapo hooks ($5 or less), and boom — Insta-worthy entrance!  Baskets can be spendy, so keep them watered – every day, or I may have to come over there! Re-stain or just “wash” your front porch. If the porch is peeling like sunbu...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
If you're planning to buy a home in 2025, one of the biggest hurdles you’ll face is getting approved for a mortgage. While mortgage requirements haven’t changed drastically, lenders have become more cautious due to economic shifts, rising interest rates, and tightening credit standards. But don’t worry—there are smart, actionable steps you can take to improve your odds of securing that all-important approval. Here's how to set yourself up for success this year.1. Know Where You Stand Financially Before applying for a mortgage, take a deep dive into your current financial picture: Check your credit score and credit report. Aim for a score of 680 or higher; 740+ can get you better rates. Calculate your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio. Lenders usually prefer a DTI below 43%, but lower is better...
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By DaCyn Walsh, Mountain & Horse Properties—Happy Trails Await!
(LoKation Real Estate)
🏔️Do You Really Need a Property Survey in the Colorado Mountains?🗺️Why boundaries matter more than you think when buying or selling mountain real estate.If you’re buying or selling real estate in the Colorado mountains, you probably already know it’s not quite the same as doing so in the city. From well locations and septic systems to sloped lots and snow loads, mountain homes come with unique considerations—and one of the most commonly overlooked (yet crucial!) steps is getting a property survey.Let’s break down what a property survey actually is, why it’s especially important in the mountains, and how it benefits both buyers and sellers.What Is a Property Survey?A property survey is a professional assessment of a parcel of land that defines its exact boundaries and identifies the loca...
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By John Handschuh ABR SRES, Bucks County Real Estate
(RE/MAX Legacy)
Warwick Meadows OverviewMapsPhotos $3,600 Commercial Rental Main Features 1 Half Bathroom1 UnitInterior: 3,000 sqftYear Built: 2004MLS #: PABU2088398 Location 201 Camars DrWarminster, PA 18974USA JOHN HANDSCHUH RE/MAX Legacy(215) 822-8200johnhandschuhsr@gmail.comhttp://www.johnhandschuh.com     Listed by: RE/MAX LEGACY Our recent listings  Subscribe to our listing feed Nearby rentals
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By Dick Betts, Realtor, Team Leader
(Dick Betts National Speaker)
Golf carts is the topic today and I thought loves golf carts?  Who buys and sells golf carts?  I know David Anderson one of the Realtors on The Betts Team.  So many times, I get asked about golf carts whether listing a home of working with buyers.  David discusses both electric and gas golf carts, advantages to both and some improvements that were made to golf carts over the years.There are some new brands of golf carts on the courses and trails in The Villages and David discussed some options.  Also, how much he thinks used golf carts could sell for, an easy way to remember.  Be sure to watch the entire video to get some great tips if you are in the market for a used golf cart.Dick Betts, REALTOR®The Betts TeamLPT RealtyThe Villages, Florida717-860-3107 cellDick@DickBetts.com#realestat...
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By Tom Braatz Waukesha County Real Estate 262-377-1459, Waukesha County Realtor Real Estate agent. SOLD!
(Coldwell Banker)
   After years of assisting people with finding Waukesha County Lake Homes for sale  or Lake home for sale in Waukesha County we have developed a system that keeps us on top of lake listings ( often before they hit the market. ) We welcome your call or text anytime at 262-377-1459I would be glad to deliver a concise list of all the properties that meet your criteria to find that perfect. Drop me an email to YOURHOMECLOSED@GMAIL.COM and get on our daily list of Waukesha County Lake Homes For Sale sent to you for you. Here is to seeing you on the Lake. Now, a month from now and all year! Have a home to sell and want to know what it is worth in Southeastern Wisconsin?   Have a productive day and I will see you at closing!Tom Braatz at 262-377-1459 or  yourhomeclosed@gmail.com     Have a pr...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐭𝐭 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 – 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟏𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 Here's your 7-day snapshot of the Ellicott City real estate market, and it’s been a busy week! 25 New Listings hit the market – inventory is growing, offering more choices for buyers! 7 Homes Coming Soon – great opportunities are just around the corner. 8 Homes Went Under Contract – buyers are still actively making moves. 27 Homes Closed – a strong sign of a healthy, active market. 3 Canceled Listings and 0 Expired – sellers are pricing strategically and homes are moving! For Buyers: More listings = more options. Now is a great time to explore! For Sellers: Closings are strong – the demand is there. Let's talk about listing your home! Need tailored insights for your neighborhood or price point? Contact the EPIK Home Group today – we're...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐯𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐔𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟏𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 The latest market activity in Catonsville shows continued movement and buyer interest: 13 New Listings – A steady influx of homes provides fresh opportunities for buyers. 2 Coming Soon – Additional listings will be hitting the market shortly. 7 Properties Under Contract – Reflecting solid buyer demand in the area. 0 Contracts Fell Through – Transactions are progressing smoothly. 5 Price Reductions – Sellers are staying competitive in a dynamic market. 13 Closed Sales – A strong week for finalized transactions. 0 Cancellations – Market stability continues. Understanding these trends is key whether you're planning to buy, sell, or invest. If you’re curious about what this means for your home or your next move, we’re here to help...
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By Tim Tanz, St Louis Real Estate
(Platinum Realty)
Video walk-thru video of my condo listing the Central West End neighborhood of St Louis.  This unit is so close to the hospitals, universities, Forest Park & everything the Central West End has to offer!I have been representing home buyers and home sellers in the St Louis Metropolitan Area since 1997 - 28 years!  I am an Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), and GRI (Graduate, Realtor Institute), and Certified Listing Professional (CLP).Affiliations: Member St Louis Association of Realtors (SLAR), Member Missouri Association of Realtors (MAR), Member National Association of Realtors (NAR), Member Real Estate Buyer's Agent Council (REBAC).St Louis Real Estate, St Louis Real Estate Agent, St Louis Realtor, St Louis Realty, St. Louis City and St. Louis County Residential Real Estate, Ho...
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By Mike McCann Broker - Mach1 Realty, ALL Types of Property For Sale 308-627-3700
(Mike McCann - Broker, Mach1 Realty Broker-Auctioneer Serving Nebraska)
This fantastic St Paul, NE home has new Owners! Thank you to the Sellers and Buyers for using the services of Mach1 Realty!  A smooth transaction handled by a fantastic Mach1 agent...Brenda Starkey!(I have to say the city of St Paul will miss the sellers...as  Dave B retired as a 2nd generation pharmacist who I have known since we were in Kindergarten together a long time ago)Most of us want to be close to our kids and Grandkids...and that was the case here.But Hey...We can help you with your future goals whether on a local basis or helping you traverse the tricky path to relocation!Mach1 Realty helps folks all over Nebraska Buy and Sell Real Estate!Give us a shout if you have any questions or needs on any type of real estate!Need an agent or Broker in a different state?  Get with us as...
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By DaCyn Walsh, Mountain & Horse Properties—Happy Trails Await!
(LoKation Real Estate)
What Every Buyer Should Know About Septic Systems in the MountainsBuying a home in the mountains of Colorado is a dream—but that dream comes with a few extra layers of responsibility, especially when it comes to your septic system.Many mountain homes aren’t connected to municipal sewer systems. Instead, they rely on septic systems, which require regular maintenance and inspections. Here’s what buyers need to know:🏡 Septic System 101:A septic system is essentially a private sewage treatment plant right in your yard. It handles all the wastewater from your home—including sinks, toilets, and laundry—and breaks it down in a tank before dispersing it safely underground.🔍 Why It Matters During the Buying Process: Inspections Are Key: A proper septic inspection (not just a general home inspect...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Wheat Ridge, COSat Jun 14 2025This week the median list price for Wheat Ridge, CO is $750,000.  What a great investment in this area if you purchase a home years ago Median List Price $750,000 Median Price of New Listings $765,000 Per Square Foot $346 Average Days on Market 76 Median Days on Market 35 Price Decreased 40% Price Increased 2% Relisted 9% Inventory 53 Median Rent $2,795
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
Westminster, COSat Jun 14 2025This week the median list price for Westminster, CO is $629,000. Median List Price $629,000 Median Price of New Listings $625,000 Per Square Foot $260 Average Days on Market 59 Median Days on Market 28 Price Decreased 45% Price Increased 1% Relisted 5% Inventory 147 Median Rent $3,000 Ready to move to Westminster, Colo.  147 Homes are calling you.
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By Candice A. Donofrio, 928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text
(Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker)
INCOME PRODUCING RETAIL/OFFICE OverviewMapsPhotosFeaturesDescription $1,900,000 Commercial Main Features 13 UnitsInterior: 12,179 sqftLot: 0.69 acre(s)Year Built: 1994MLS #: 030008 Location 2065 Highway 95Bullhead City, AZ 86442USA Candice A Donofrio NEXT WAVE Real Estate Investments LLC(928) 704-5181Candice@RealEstateBHC.comhttp://RealEstateBHC.com       Listed by: Candice A Donofrio Our recent listings  Subscribe to our listing feed Nearby properties for sale
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By Thomas Santore Lic Associate Real Estate Broker, Realtor®-ABR-Land, Residential & Commercial Sa
(Coldwell Banker Realty/Coldwell Banker Commercial NRT)
Do you have a different strategy now that half the year is gone for your RE business? 1️⃣ Mid-Year Reality Check (Market Pulse) Inventory remains tight in most categories, especially for vacant land. Buyer fatigue is creeping in, but serious buyers remain hungry for the right parcels. Interest rates may soften slightly in Q3/Q4 — which could bring another small wave of buyers. Many sellers are still in "wait and see" mode. New Strategy Shift👉 Aggressive seller prospecting — it's time to start shaking more land loose.👉 More off-market work — contact past owners, developers who paused projects, estate attorneys, surveyors, etc.👉 Position yourself as "The land agent who creates inventory." 2️⃣ Build Your Fall Pipeline Now Deals you're sourcing now are closing late summer or fall. Start ag...
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By Jeff&Grace Safrin, SpousesSellingHousesTM
(F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate)
Coming Soon = Showings Start Wednesday, 6/18/2025.740 Imperial Road, Valparaiso Indiana 46385  -  $233,000.-> click here for more info1400 Square Feet Updated Ranch Home4 Bedrooms, 2 BathroomsNewer Stainless Kitchen Appliances IncludedCorner 1/4 Acre Lot, Fenced Yard2 Decks, Raised Garden Boxes Moving to Portage Township in Valparaiso, Indiana, offers a blend of suburban tranquility and proximity to urban amenities. This area is ideal for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a balanced lifestyle.Portage Township is part of Valparaiso, a vibrant city known for its good schools, cultural attractions, and active community life. Neighborhoods offer a suburban feel with access to city conveniences. Residents enjoy a range of recreational options, including parks, trails, and local e...
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By Ellie McIntire, Luxury service in Central Maryland
(Ellicott City Clarksville Howard County Maryland Real Estate)
Moving into a new home should be an exciting milestone—not a stressful mess. But between packing, paperwork, and the inevitable “Where did I put the scissors?” moment, the process can easily feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right preparation, you can skip the chaos and enjoy a smooth transition into your next chapter. Here are five expert tips to help you move with less stress and more confidence.🗂️ 1. Start Early & Make a Game PlanProcrastination is the biggest stress trigger during a move. As soon as you have your move-in date, create a timeline that breaks down tasks week by week. Start decluttering early, schedule your movers, and plan utility transfers ahead of time. A solid checklist will help you stay in control and avoid last-minute panic.📦 2. Declutter Before You Pack...
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By Will Hamm, "Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"
(Hamm Homes)
If you missed Victor blog on this subject, you need to catch it now.  Thinking about buying or selling a home in the Greater Greenville Upstate South Carolina area? You’re not alone. With so many online tools and DIY guides out there, it’s easy to wonder if you can handle the process without a real estate agent — and still come out ahead. The truth? You can buy or sell a home without a realtor… but it might cost you. A lot. Let’s break down why working with an experienced real estate professional isn’t just helpful — it’s essential.   You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know (and That’s Expensive)  One of the most important financial decisions you will ever make is buying or selling a home. It’s right up there with medical procedures or legal battles — and in all those cases, you’d want a sea...
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By Victor Amadi, Greenville SC Realtor
(PRODUCER Realty, LLC)
Thinking about buying or selling a home in the Greater Greenville Upstate South Carolina area? You’re not alone. With so many online tools and DIY guides out there, it’s easy to wonder if you can handle the process without a real estate agent — and still come out ahead. The truth? You can buy or sell a home without a realtor… but it might cost you. A lot.Let’s break down why working with an experienced real estate professional isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know (and That’s Expensive) One of the most important financial decisions you will ever make is buying or selling a home. It’s right up there with medical procedures or legal battles — and in all those cases, you’d want a seasoned pro guiding you. You wouldn’t perform surgery on yourself, right? So...
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By Nelson Huggins, Local junk removal service. Real Estate clean outs
(Black Dog Junk Removal)
If you're a homeowner, Realtor, or property manager, you’ve likely run into an item that was a major headache to dispose of. The one that won’t fit in the trash can, can’t be left on the curb, and isn’t accepted by the local dump. Whether you're preparing a home for sale, cleaning up after a move, or just decluttering, some clutter is anything but simple.That’s where a full service junk removal company, like Black Dog Junk Removal, can make all the difference. We help homeowners and real estate pros deal with the hard-to-dispose-of stuff every day, so here are five of the most common problem items, and how we take care of them so you don’t have to. Mattresses & Box SpringsYou can’t just set a mattress on the curb and expect it to disappear. Most waste facilities won’t accept them, and m...
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