You will never have to pay to be listed as a top neighbor. Period. That important detail clarified, let's discuss how we arrive at two "top neighbors" for a given region:
Localism is a bustling collection of hyper-local communities, and the top neighbors should reflect those members who are most active. When ranking users in a given region, several factors are considered. To get your foot in the proverbial door, you need to have posted at least one "Localism" article or photo for the region.
The very best way to quickly rise to #1 is to post high-quality local content. Unlike the vast majority of "community" sites that rely on dry automatic algorithms, Localism employs a team of crack editors who approve the best content. Having your posts and photos consistently approved will massively tilt the scales in your favor.
"Legacy" content is also considered when ranking top neighbors. We don't want to leave the early adopters of Localism in the cold, and we're working hard to process that backlog.
What doesn't count toward the top neighbor ranking? ActiveRain points and community sponsorships. The top neighbor spots will always go to the most active members in a region. We want to create a level playing field that encourages the growth of communities — talent and dedication are required to win the day.




































































































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If you recall--and you probably don't--I have a short sale listing in Richmond. Whereas my clients paid $500,000 for this adorable bungalow, made significant improvements, invested their life savings, and this home should have been worth $550-600,000; I had to list it at a fraction of what should have been its' value: $350,000--to no avail. A few months later, I dropped the price to $325,000--still no takers.
After doing a new CMA, I dropped the price drastically to $250,000-still above the comps--as this is a special property.
Amazingly enough-lots of interest-and FOUR offers. Hmmm, why? Yes, it is priced well, but there are houses selling and listed for $150,000; 100,000 and even less! Why is my listing selling for close to the list price? Because it is still-unlike almost everything else nearby-owner-occupied!!!
Banks that are kicking homeowners out are doing a disservice. A vacant house is an invitation to criminals, drug-users, vandals and vagrants--and a major decrease in value!!
Thus, I have two point here: one-a well-priced home will sell, but condition-or value-trumps a dump and two-lenders, PLEASE let people stay in their homes as it will maintain the value better and keep the home from being trashed (more on this later).



