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When I joined the ActiveRain blogging network in 2006, my main goal was to connect with other real estate agents and expand my sphere of ­influence. And indeed, the platform exposed me to a broad array of bloggers with varied backgrounds and interests. But one thing I never anticipated was to find a new outlet for...

MLSs have grown dramatically from humble note cards being traded at the local VFW, but this growth has come without any coherent plan, vision, or industry standard to shape that growth.

No one has all the answers to buyers' and sellers' concerns. But we're constantly striving to offer you knowledge and resources you need to have an informed conversation with those you serve.

Yes, difficult times persist for many who work in the real estate profession, maybe even you. But these challenges should hardly keep you from engaging in public service. In fact, it’s during times like these that leaders can really shine.

At a time when business has never been more competitive, the arrival of new competitors—er, colleagues—can sometimes feel like a cause for serious jaw clenching. But it’s not always as bad as it seems, and here's the proof.

There is a generational gulf that threatens both collegiality and our ability to function cooperatively. We need to better understand each other's points of view if we're going to work together productively.

The expansion of government efforts to curb foreclosures encourages the rise of shadowy private sector initiatives promising to protect distressed borrowers. Also, many former mortgage brokers, title agents, and related professionals now specialize in foreclosure rescue. While most are honest, some are the same people who not long ago were promoting fraudulent and inappropriate subprime mortgages.

As it did after Hurricane Katrina, the government can inject new life into the housing market by appealing to investors.

When you have the opportunity to choose or recommend an appraiser, do your homework first by checking state licensing boards or consumer protection agencies and asking trusted colleagues for referrals.

With minority homeownership still lagging the national average, it’s clear there’s more work to be done. You can make a difference by educating yourself and your community and by being a resource to the culturally diverse customers in your market.

There’s no doubt that the mortgage meltdown will be one of the most important issues facing the Obama administration. Finding a logical resolution won’t be easy. It will require a solution that’s balanced and beneficial to both mortgage holders and lending institutions.