First Blog Posts

Sometimes, it can be scary to write your first blog post! Luckily, the supportive community of ActiveRain is just the place to start.

On this page you will find a running list of “first blog posts” written on ActiveRain by members of the real estate industry. These new bloggers have taken the leap to begin their blogging journey. Our first-time real estate bloggers deserve a big welcome and some extra encouragement from you!

Take a read, leave a comment, and say hello. You'll make that author’s day and help to give them a great first impression of our community.

Agent's first blog posts on ActiveRain

By Michael D King, Michael D King Helping U Buy, Sell & Succeed in AZ
(MDKgroup at Keller Williams Northeast Realty)
🏡 PRICE DROP – Now Listed at $698,000 in Waddell, AZ!📍 18620 W Diana Avenue | White Tank Foothills---If you’ve been waiting for a sign—this is it.This beautifully upgraded Waddell home just got even better with a new list price of $698,000, and the sellers are motivated to make the right deal happen.More than just a home, this is a lifestyle move. Whether you’re looking for room to roam, space for your toys, or mountain views in a quiet setting—this property has it all, and then some.---✨ Why This One Stands Out💰 Now listed at $698,000🚗 Fully air-conditioned RV garage – ideal for toys, tools, hobbies, or guests🏜️ Incredible White Tank Mountain views with no homes behind🌵 Oversized lot with privacy and space🪑 Furniture available (not included in sale) – easy move-in option🎁 Home warranty...
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By Andrea Lilienfeld, Scottsdale Realtor | 55+ and Investment Expert
(The Kay-Grant Group)
I’m incredibly fortunate to be recognized as a top Arizona Realtor for several of the most popular 55+ communities in the state. As a result, I often get questions from clients, friends, and family about how to choose the best fit for their lifestyle.One of the most common questions I’m asked is:“What should I consider when deciding which 55+ community is right for me?”Below are the top five questions I always recommend clients consider before touring homes for sale in an active adult community.1. What’s My Budget?This goes beyond simply saying "$500K–$750K" or “under $400K.” You’ll want to think through: Are you purchasing with cash or financing? If using a mortgage, speak with a trusted lender to determine: Your down payment amount What monthly payment you're comfortable with What are...
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By Andrew Romines, Real estate agent serving all of middle Tennessee
(Team Romines at Keller Williams Realty)
Columbia, Tennessee (located in Maury County) is a city that's rich in history and full of life. It's a place  where the old meets new and creates a unique blend of old south charm and modern trends.  Columbia’s restate market has become as diverse as the city itself. It has historic homes, small and large acreage, and new constructions, there's something for everyone and lifestyle. For us at Team Romines, buying a home is more than just browsing online and signing paperwork.  Although house hunting can be fun, it’s more about finding a place where you can build a life, a community, and a future.  It’s why we've created this guide. To help you navigate the Columbia, TN real estate market and find the right home for you.  We will explore the different types of homes available, the advant...
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By Jacob Maslow, Your Brooklyn Connection
(Torsx)
In the fast-paced world of property management, working with the right real estate partner can make all the difference. While large chain brokerages may offer name recognition and expansive reach, more and more property managers — especially in competitive urban markets like New York City — are turning to boutique firms for a better experience and better results.This trend isn’t just anecdotal. It reflects a growing awareness across the industry that personalized service, hyper-local insight, and flexibility are often more valuable than size or brand prestige.1. Boutique Brokerages Offer Direct, Personalized ServiceOne of the top frustrations property managers report when working with larger brokerages is the lack of consistency. You may speak with one representative during onboarding, ...
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By Liz Taylor, Full-time Realtor for over 20 years
(Royal LePage Top Producers)
📍 By Liz Taylor, Winnipeg Realtor | Royal LePage Top ProducersAs a Realtor serving Winnipeg and surrounding cottage areas, I’ve had many conversations with clients wondering if owning a recreational property is worth it—especially in a market where affordability and work-life flexibility are changing how we think about real estate.If you're considering buying a cabin or cottage in Manitoba, here’s a breakdown of the top 10 pros and cons based on experience and current market insights.✅ Pros of Buying a Cottage in Manitoba 1. Affordability Compared to Other ProvincesPrices in Manitoba are generally much lower than in B.C. or Ontario, making cottage ownership more accessible.2. Quick Access to NaturePopular spots like Falcon Lake, Lake Winnipeg, and Clear Lake are just 1–3 hours from Winn...
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By Arius Valentino, Elite Agents + Qrixe Technology
(Luxe Residences)
End Zillow.Keep 100% Of Your Commission Zillow made $2.2 billion last year—off your listings, your clients, and your market.How much did you make? Qrixe ends that game—for good. With our patent-pending QR code technology, every homeowner in your farm area can instantly view your CMA, your full marketing plan, and a video of you explaining the next steps. Join the Zoom Preview No ad spend.No cold calls.No farming.No lead cost.No commission splits.No more broker leads with 50-50 splits that you still have to chase.No more gimmicks or guru funnels. Why It Matters  You keep 100% of your commission Your proposals are generated and delivered instantly—for free Videos, CMAs, and QR distribution are all included at no charge You’ll reach 5,000+ homeowners per day with your face, voice, and stra...
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By Krystle Nicholas, Real estate agent licensed in SC & NC
(Real Broker, LLC)
Located in the award-winning Lexington One school district. Step into elevated living with the highly sought-after Springfield floorplan—boasting over 4,000 sq ft of luxurious living space. This stunning 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath home features a bonus room with a closet, easily transforming into a 6TH BEDROOM, playroom or luxe media lounge. Upon entering, you are greeted with a grand two-story foyer and designer LVP flooring throughout the entire home. The living space boasts a beautiful, coffered ceiling and stone fireplace. The chef’s kitchen dazzles with high-end finishes, gleaming quartz countertops, an expansive island, and abundant cabinetry. An office with French doors and full guest suite completes the first level. Upstairs you will find 3 secondary bedrooms, the laundry room with upg...
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By Vanessa Mouton, REALTOR®, Coach | Real Talk. NC-Based.
(Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices )
Spoiler: It’s not flexibility. And it’s not finances.This past weekend, I hosted an open house with a newer agent shadowing me. As we chatted, I asked what drew her to real estate. I was ready for the usual answers—freedom, flexibility, financial opportunity.But instead, she paused and said something that surprised me:“I wanted something that felt fun.”It was honest. It was refreshing. And it got me thinking…When Did “Fun” Stop Being Part of the Plan?I’ll be the first to admit—I didn’t always feel free to show up that way.Early in my career, I believed professionalism meant polished, buttoned-up, blend-in energy. If you had told me back then that there’d be photos of me in an inflatable unicorn costume on LinkedIn, I would’ve choked on my client packet.(Truth: there are multiple unicorn...
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By Dean Lykos, Customer-Centric | Data-Driven | Tech Innovative
(Douglas Elliman)
Imagine shedding the weight of a big house—mowing the lawn, fixing the roof, paying those hefty property taxes—and stepping into a vibrant, low-maintenance life where your days are filled with new friends, sunny walks, and zero home maintenance stress. Sounds dreamy, right? For seniors looking to downsize, Long Island’s 55+ communities are the perfect solution. These neighborhoods combine affordability, luxury, and an active lifestyle, all wrapped up in the charm of Long Island’s beaches and proximity to New York City. Let’s dive into why downsizing to a 55+ community is a game-changer and explore the best options on Long Island, NY, to make your next chapter the best yet. Why Downsize to a 55+ Community?Downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space; it’s about embracing a simpl...
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By Ken Jones, Real Estate Advisor
Many people, like me, are born with so-called "common" names, like John Smith. In my case, I was given the name Kenneth Jones.Although living with a common name can be used as a humorous conversation starter,  having such a name becomes a very significant issue when trying to market yourself.Throughout the first 15± years of my real estate career, while I was required to use my full legal name, Kenneth J. Jones, on legal documents, I marketed myself and was commonly known as KenJones.During that time, the Internet didn't exist. Consequently, there were also no websites, no domain names, and no email addresses. While this limited one's marketing outlets mainly to various forms of print media, signage, and, to a lesser degree, radio ads, having a common name wasn't much of a handicap, if ...
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As part of my efforts to get a real estate license, I have been learning about the many different ways that and agent can lose their licensing. In the State of Utah, there are many different ways to lose your licensing, all of which are serious. Lying, breaking rules, and false advertising are a few of the ones that we hear often but there are other, more discrete ways to lose your license. One of these is bad record keeping. I know, it seems a little bit silly but it is a big deal. Although it may not seem like it matters, in the real estate world, you must stay organized and on top of things. If you don't, it could very well cost you your job and license to sell properties. In Utah, we are required to keep all records related to transactions and accounts for a minimum of three years. ...
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By Modern Traditions Realty Group, Elite real estate team in Metro Atlanta
(Modern Traditions Realty Group)
If you're seeking an elegant, move-in-ready home in one of Gwinnett County’s most desirable 55+ communities, 332 Rosshandler Road in Suwanee, Georgia, is a must-see. Located within a gated, sidewalk-lined neighborhood just minutes from Suwanee Town Center, this 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence redefines luxury living for active adults who value comfort, customization, and convenience.For more information-> https://www.moderntraditionsrealty.com/listings/view/residential/7587068Thoughtful Design Meets High-End CraftsmanshipBuilt in 2018, this four-sided brick home stands out for its custom upgrades and sophisticated features rarely found in comparable properties. Step through the glass front door and you’ll immediately notice the grand 12-foot ceilings, elegant crown molding, and designer...
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By Adam Scard, World traveler and lover of real estate trends
Real estate has traditionally been seen as a bricks-and-mortar industry, defined by physical assets, location, and economic cycles. But in today’s evolving landscape, intellectual property (IP) is playing a surprisingly transformative role in shaping the future of real estate. Whether it’s smart buildings, sustainable materials, or proprietary construction techniques, innovation in the built environment is increasingly dependent on protecting and leveraging IP assets. As developers push the envelope with technology-driven projects, understanding the role of IP—particularly patents, trademarks, and copyrights—has become essential. From property design to operational efficiency, IP is now a valuable layer that gives modern real estate projects a competitive edge. Why IP Matters in Real E...
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By Matt Cameron, Locally owned and faithfully trusted inspections!
(Trinity Home Inspections LLC)
Trinity Home Inspections LLC is a Christian-owned, locally operated home inspection company proudly serving Baldwin, Mobile, and Escambia counties in Alabama. We specialize in providing comprehensive residential inspections for homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals. Our services include standard home inspections, 11-month warranty inspections, Move-In Certified® pre-listing inspections, manufactured home permanent foundation certifications, pool and workshop inspections, and annual maintenance evaluations.Each inspection is performed with precision, integrity, and clear communication. We utilize advanced tools such as thermal imaging and moisture meters to detect issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. Our digital reports are easy to read, include high-quality phot...
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By Melody Stevens, Interior Designer / Renovator in Conroe
(Design On A Dime Interiors)
Let’s be honest—small spaces get a bad rap. They’re often labeled as “cramped,” “basic,” or “temporary.” But here’s the truth: when designed with intention, even the tiniest room can feel like a high-end retreat. It’s not about the size of the space—it’s about what you do with it. Elegance doesn’t come from square footage; it comes from thoughtful choices. Clean lines, soft layers, smart lighting, and subtle architectural elements can elevate a room far beyond its dimensions. You don’t need to knock down walls—you just need to get creative with what you’ve got. Let’s explore some design tricks that make small rooms feel stylish, cozy, and yes—elegant.Use Vertical Elements to Draw the Eye In a small room, your greatest asset is height. Whether you’ve got standard ceilings or something a ...
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By Jeremias Villanueva, Real estate agent serving Vermont's Eastside
(Orientcoast)
Vermont is a state known for its scenic beauty, charming small towns, and strong sense of community. From the rolling Green Mountains to the serene shores of Lake Champlain, Vermont offers a variety of landscapes and lifestyles that appeal to homebuyers, investors, and vacation seekers alike. But navigating the real estate market in such a unique and diverse state can be overwhelming — and that’s where we come in.At [Your Company Name], our deep-rooted background in travel and tourism gives us an edge when it comes to helping clients explore and invest in Vermont real estate. Here’s why our travel expertise makes all the difference.1. Local Insight with a Traveler’s Eye As seasoned travel professionals, we've spent years uncovering Vermont's hidden gems — from quiet mountain towns like ...
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Real estate has always been a pillar of stability and growth for individuals, families, and investors. Whether it’s a sprawling countryside property, a high-rise apartment, a retail space in the city, or a cozy vacation home, real estate remains one of the most dependable assets in any economic climate.In today’s dynamic world, where industries shift and digital trends evolve rapidly, real estate stands tall as a solid and lasting investment. Here's why buying, holding, or trading property continues to be a powerful move for anyone looking to secure their financial future.The Value of Land and LocationReal estate is all about location. A well-placed property can skyrocket in value due to surrounding development, population growth, and demand. Whether it’s a coastal town gaining populari...
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By Joe Stephenson, Real Estate Agent serving the KC metro area
(Joe Stephenson)
Real Estate Agents Can Try These for 2025Summer is almost here, and everytime the spring and summer roll around, I think of open houses. When I helped my friend sell his house, we had an amazing open house experience. I partnered with another agent for that transaction, and I learned a few ideas.Open houses are one of the best ways for real estate agents to connect with potential buyers, showcase properties, and gather valuable leads for future opportunities. However, hosting a standout open house requires more than simply putting up a sign and unlocking the door. With the right open house strategies, you can create a memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression on your guests. One tool to always bring with you is a free open house sign-in sheet, which helps you effortlessly co...
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By Michele West, Real Estate Pro/New Homes & Community Expert: NH
(RE/MAX Prime)
Nestled in the serene, wooded enclave of Merrimack, New Hampshire, 1 Village Falls Way #1 presents a harmonious blend of natural beauty and contemporary living. This end-unit townhouse offers a peaceful retreat without compromising on accessibility to essential amenities.🏡 Property Overview Price: $340,000 Type: Townhouse Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1.5 Living Space: 1,838 sq ft Year Built: 1985 MLS ID: 5042510 This spacious townhouse is designed for comfort and functionality, featuring a finished basement that adds versatility to the living space.✨ Interior Features Living Room: A cozy space with a fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. Kitchen: Equipped with stainless steel appliances, white cabinetry, and light countertops, offering both style and practicality. Bedrooms: Two generously...
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By Ineet Pahwa, CEO & Realtor at XLNC Exotic Homes, San Diego
(XLNC Exotic Homes)
Selling your house for cash can be fast and simple. But not every cash offer is what it seems. Some buyers are legit. Others are looking for a quick score at your expense. If you want a quick home sale in San Diego or anywhere else, you need to know the red flags. This guide breaks down what to watch out for, how to spot scams, and how to protect your profit.Why Cash Offers Are So PopularCash home buyers promise speed. No banks. No appraisals. No commissions. You can sell your house as-is and close in days, not months. For many, that’s a dream. But the rush to close can cloud your judgment. Scammers know this. They prey on sellers who want out fast.The Most Common Cash Buyer Scams1. Unsolicited or Out-of-the-Blue OffersYou get a text or email: “I want to buy your house for cash. No ques...
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