Recent Blog Posts

The amazing members of ActiveRain produce hundreds of blog posts every single day of the year.  There is a wonderful mix of all things real estate and beyond for your reading pleasure.

This board rolls all day long with the newest blog posts to our site. You’ll find some diamonds in the rough on this page, so check back often to peruse the blog roll and learn from our committed community of real estate professionals.

The newest blog posts on ActiveRain

By Ritu Desai 703-625-4949, Northern Virginia,Washington DC & Maryland Realtor
(Samson Properties)
As the leaves start to turn and the air becomes crisp, it's apple-picking season in the DC Metro area! If you're looking for a fun and family-friendly fall activity, apple picking is a fantastic choice. Whether you're in search of the perfect apple for pie-making or simply want to enjoy the beauty of an orchard, you're in luck. We've compiled a list of the top 5 apple-picking destinations around the DC Metro area that promise an unforgettable experience. 1. Baugher’s Orchard Location: 1015 Baugher Rd, Westminster, MD 21158 Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday in September, 10 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday in October Baugher’s Orchard is a family-owned gem located just a short drive from DC. With a wide variety of apple varieties, including classics like Gala and Granny Smith, ...
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By Walter DiLoreto, Real Estate Short Sale Specialist
(PHP Houses)
If your listing expired and your house didn’t sell, you’re likely feeling a little frustrated. Not to mention, you're also probably wondering what went wrong. Here are three questions to think about as you figure out what to do next. Did You Limit Access to Your House? One of the biggest mistakes you can make when selling your house is restricting the days and times when potential buyers can tour it. Being flexible with your schedule is important when you're selling your house, even though it might feel a bit stressful to drop everything and leave when buyers want to see it. After all, minimal access means minimal exposure to buyers. ShowingTime advises: “. . . do your best to be as flexible as possible when granting access to your house for showings.” Sometimes, the most determined bu...
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By Hugh Grant, I help investors and consumers with real estate
(RealMax Realty)
In many residences, the kitchen is the heart of the home. This is the space where we prepare the meals that sustain and nurture us. It is often the place where we gather. It should be comfortable, harmonious, and clean. Many upscale homes have elegant kitchens that are also highly functional. Let’s explore some of the aspects of a luxury kitchen that you can incorporate into your design.Customized DesignIt is important that your kitchen reflects your personal style while also being an efficient space to prepare meals in. The best luxury kitchens showcase the highest quality of design. By hiring a kitchen designer, you can work as a team to customize the space through a functional layout and individually sourced materials, such as countertops and statement lighting, that speak to your le...
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By Nicholas Crane, Managing & Appraising Forest Land
(Woodland Companies)
The Wisconsin Woodland Report Sept 2023 Florence County Land; Hunting, Timber, Investments!  Market Snapshot for 20+ Acre Properties         Available Properties Report Price Total Acres $/Acre Original MLS # Status Municipality County $255,900 60.85 $4,205 50278965 Active Aurora Florence $599,900 160 $3,749 1836312 Active Florence Florence      $    3,977 Median Price / Acre   $855,800            221  $    3,875 Average Price / Acre    For more information on any of these properties call us, or send an email with the mls number and your contact info to WoodlandTeamWI@gmail.com or Bob@ForestlandWMS.com   🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🦌🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲 Current Listings for Florence County 🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🦌🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲🌲🌳🌳🌲🌲     Florence County Wisconsin, Wildlife Wilderness & Timber  Florence County is a sometimes forgotten...
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By Kristin Johnston - REALTOR®, Giving Back With Each Home Sold!
(RE/MAX Platinum)
Genesee WI Homes for Sale | Market Report for August 2023 Live in the peaceful town of Genesee WI!Genesee is a historic town in Waukesha County. It is located near the center of Waukesha County and in the beautiful Kettle Moraine area of southeast Wisconsin.According to the United States Bureau, it has an area of 32.0 square miles, of which, 31.9 square miles is land and 0.1 square mile is water.The community was founded by German, Welsh, Irish, and English immigrants in the early 1840’s. On March 21, 1843, the Wisconsin State Legislature approved the present town boundaries of Genesee. The entire area was formed 10,000 years ago by the glaciers. At present, it has a hilly terrain, shallow soil landscape, and beds of gravel and limestone underlie the land surface.Genesee is unique becau...
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By Bob Elliot, 20+ Yrs Industry Experience
(eXp Realty)
Buying a home is one of the largest investments you will make in your life, and that's why so many people have longer mortgage amortization periods to pay down the principal. While it may seem appealing to have a longer amortization period, here's why an extended loan term can end up costing you more and may be less financially beneficial when it comes right down to it.About Mortgage AmortizationGenerally speaking, a 25-year mortgage amortization period can be typical, but there are many loan periods that a homebuyer can choose for amortization. While a longer-loan period may seem enticing because it will mean a smaller monthly payment, a shorter amortization will enable you to own your investment sooner, which can be a great boon for many people. It's worth being aware of what works be...
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By Delynda Middleton
(www.deemiddleton.com)
Is your garage overrun with clutter, leaving no room for your car or making it difficult to find what you need? This step-by-step guide will help you reclaim your garage. You can read my detailed post on How to Clear Out Your Garage in 7 Easy Steps here. Set Clear Goals: Define your objectives for the cleanout, such as creating an organized workspace or decluttering. Gather Your Supplies: Assemble essential items like bins, trash bags, cleaning supplies, labels, and safety gear. Sort and Categorize: Remove everything from the garage and categorize items into groups: keep, donate, sell, dispose, and recycle. Clean and Repair: Give your garage a thorough cleaning and address any needed repairs. Organize and Store: Invest in storage solutions like shelves and bins to keep your items organi...
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By Bob "RealMan" Timm, Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker
(Ward County Notary Services)
The North Dakota State Fairgrounds is being overrun with Norwegians, Swedes, Danes, Finlanders, & Icelanders. Once again it is North Americas LARGEST Scandinavian festival, the Norsk Hostfest.It's a four day party of ethnic food, entertainment, and shopping. The food is fantastic with top Chefs from Scandinavia and other worldwide locations. Entertainment also includes international artists on multiple stages through out the party grounds every day of the festival. There is more then an acre of shopping featuring mostly hand made items.There is so much to see at the Hostfest you must visit at least two days and of course if you want to see the main entertainment attractions you need to be their all four days.If you can't make it this year I hope to see you next year for the 48th annual ...
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By Patricia Feager, MBA, CRS, GRI,MRP, Selling Homes Changing Lives
(DFW FINE PROPERTIES)
It was a hot 98 degrees when the sun set as I left the Robson Ranch Clubhouse in Denton last night. Beyond the field with the setting sun were roadways before getting on I-35W that were lined with sunflowers. As a student at Olli University of North Texas, I attended "Witnesses to History: A Panel" discussion. The planned event was scheduled to feature three individuals who experienced JFK's assassination and its aftermath, firsthand. As it turned out, only one showed up; the other two were sick and very old. I was able to listen to Norman Grant, Jr., MD, who was a senior medical student at Methodist Hospital in Dallas at the time of the assassination. He participated in the retrieval of a bullet from the body of Officer J.D. Tippit while other doctors he knew treated both President Ken...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
Left Albufiera this morning, and drove through several small towns, and then through Faro.    Still very difficult to find parking in these cities, so just drove through.    Went to Tavira, and THOUGHT my hotel was near the water, but NOPE.   Not sure what I was doing, but this one is clear up in the hills in rural Portugal!  In the far distance you can see the ocean.The Quinta Do Marco is located at 18 acres, where they have fruit and olive trees and gardens to grow some of the food they cook.   They have a pool, baby pool and hot tub along with the pool bar.   There is a small spa (with sauna and Turkish bath).    You can make an appointment for a massage also.     They also have some farm animals (donkeys, sheep, chickens, geese, peacocks) for the kids to get a kick out of.   I found...
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Wilshire Corridor Weekly Market Update September 17th - 23rd, 2023 The Longford NEWLY LISTED Wilshire | 0 bedrooms | 1 baths | 365 sq. ft. | $475,000 The Westholme RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2354 sq. ft. | $1,650,000 The Wilshire RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 2757 sq. ft. | $3,125,000 Wilshire Holmby RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 3 baths | 1418 sq. ft. | $695,000 Wilshire Marquis RECENTLY SOLD Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1352 sq. ft. | $889,000 Wilshire Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2 baths | 1400 sq. ft. | $879,000
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By Dorie Dillard Austin TX, NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones
(Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899)
It's fun to look back over the years and see the significance of certain dates. Here's a few to check out!   THIS WEEK IN HISTORY   u 2006: Facebook opens Sept. 26 to everyone 13 years or older with a valid email address. u 2001: Protesters storm the abandoned U.S. Embassy Sept. 26 in Kabul, Afghanistan.u 1990: On Sept. 26, the "NC-17" movie rating debuts, barring moviegoers 16 or younger. u 1982: "Cheers" debuts Sept. 30 on NBC, beginning its 11-season run.u 1954: The "Tonight!" show debuts Sept. 27 on NBC with Steve Allen as its host.u 1829: London's reorganized police force, called Scotland Yard, is introduced Sept. 29.
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By Debe Maxwell, CRS, The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!
(Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310)
Unlocking the Door to Your Belmont Dream Home: Exclusive Open House Event This Weekend!SATURDAY, 9/30 1:00 - 3:00PM1617 Allen Street | Charlotte, NC 28205  Open House Alert: We Have Found Your Dream Home in Belmont, Charlotte! If you've been on the hunt for your dream home, we've got some exciting news for you. We're hosting an Open House for a property that is nothing short of a slice of paradise, right in the heart of Belmont—one of Charlotte's most charming neighborhoods! Why Is This Home is a Must-See?From the moment you step onto the rocking chair front porch, you'll feel a sense of warmth and welcome that's hard to find. But that's just the beginning! Venture inside, and you'll be greeted by impeccable craftsmanship at every turn. From the box-beam ceilings to the site-finished ha...
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By Joe Manausa - Tallahassee, FL, Tallahassee Real Estate
(Joe Manausa Real Estate)
1699 Saint Georges Ct, East Point, FL Photos Maps & Local Schools Print Click here to Get Directions$525,000 3 Beds - 2 Baths - 0.75 acres Lot Enjoy beautiful sunrises and sunsets overlooking St George Sound. This new construction community features, a gated private entrance, a community pool, terrific views and also even has ONSITE Boat and RV Parking. Additionally, this community sports it own private boat dock for loading or unloading for a day on the water. This home features a spacious open floor plan, Granite Countertops, Beautiful Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring, upgraded bathrooms which also have Granite Countertops. Abundant natural light fills the main living area of this home. Furthermore, from the front of this home and the front porch, there are breathtaking views of the sound...
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By Joan Cox, Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time
(House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373)
After several long days either exploring or driving, sure was nice to have a day to relax more.   I need to remember that when scheduling vacation.   No need to RUN every single day, stop and smell the roses, or your surroundings!Today was my second day in Albufiera, and just fun sitting on my couch and looking out at the ocean, and the people frolicking on the beach!   The weather is still very hot (upper 80's with high humidity).    I did go to the Benagil Caves today, but decided against another tour, and could not actually see the caves, but the beach was sure nice!Wandered around several of the smaller towns nearby and walked.Tomorrow leaving for Tavira, and will stop in Faro to explore.   I will be flying out of there in a couple of days, but my flight leaves in the morning, and w...
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By John Pusa, Your All Time Realtor With Exceptional Service
(Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Crest)
Every year on September 28th, and this year on Thursday September 28, 2023, neighbors around the nation celebrate unofficial National Good Neighbor Day to acknowledge importance of good neighbors. In 2003, National Good Neighbor Day was changed from the fourth Sunday in September to September 28.Generally, neighbors become friends, watch out for each other, gather together for events, and a neighborhood becomes a large family.National Good Neighbor Day was created in the 1970's by Becky Mattson of Lakeside, Montana.In 1978 United States President Jimmy Carter issued Proclamation 4601: “As our Nation struggles to build friendship among the peoples of this world, we are mindful that the noblest human concern is concern for others. Understanding, love, and respect build cohesive families a...
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By Dick Betts, REALTOR® The Villages, Florida
(TOUCHSTONE REAL ESTATE)
Welcome to this charming Lantana model home located in Mallory Square. Situated on a quiet cul-de-sac street just minutes away from Lake-Sumter Square, this home offers a desirable location. The expansive floor plan boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. As you enter, you'll notice the impressive 10-foot high hip ceilings with a knockdown finish, creating a spacious and open atmosphere. The kitchen is a true delight for any cook, featuring stainless steel appliances and an electric stove. It is one of the largest in the Designer Series and offers plenty of cabinets with pullouts, counters everywhere, island, nook, and breakfast bar. The laundry room has space for a workstation and a utility sink. Roof replaced 2014 Ceramic tile floors grace the dining room, providing ample ...
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How to Prepare Your Home for Sale…Repair, Replace, Refresh (Part 3) This post is the Third in a series of 7 on How to Prepare Your Home for Sale.  Now that you’re committed to selling your house, it’s time to take action to ensure that buyers will see all of the possibilities it has to offer. REPAIR, REPLACE, REFRESH!  REPAIRNow is the time to address all of those items you’ve put off repairing…the broken gutter or things that don’t work. Deferred repairs become distractions to potential buyers.  They’re easy to overlook as we go through our daily lives.  However, your buyers will see them as an indication of how well the house has been maintained. The calculator in their head will also tally up how much these repairs will cost them and when they do, REPLACEIf your carpet or other floor...
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By Linda Blumenthal, NYS Licenced Real Estate Salesperson, CBR
(Hampton Crossing - Licensed Real Estate Salesperson - 631-466-4087)
September 28th Puzzle - National Strawberry Cream Pie Day:Enjoy your day!Directions: Click on the link below.  Your puzzle will open in a new window.To locate a word, please hold down the left side of your mouse while dragging your cursor over the letters of that word. Release your hold when all of the letters of the word have been selected. If your response is correct, the word will change color on the word list.Please check back for future daily puzzles.Enjoy and have a great day!Click Here To PlayIf you are looking to purchase a property or home on Long Island, New York, I hope you think of me, Linda Blumenthal.
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By Ryan Case, Realtor servicing all of Southern California
(Coldwell Banker Realty)
Woodland Hills Weekly Market Update September 17th - 23rd, 2023 Ascent At Warner Center RECENTLY SOLD Erwin Street | 1 bedrooms | 1 baths | 630 sq. ft. | $482,000 Villa Granada BACK ON THE MARKET Randi Avenue | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1559 sq. ft. | $699,999 RECENTLY SOLD Erwin Street | 3 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1575 sq. ft. | $799,000 Warner Club Villas BACK ON THE MARKET Burbank Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1338 sq. ft. | $679,000 Warner Woods BACK ON THE MARKET Burbank Boulevard | 2 bedrooms | 2.5 baths | 1338 sq. ft. | $679,000
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