The Art of Starting a War on Active Rain

War on Active RainWar - is a reciprocated, armed conflict, between two or more non-congruous entities, aimed at reorganizing a subjectively designed, geo-politically desired result.  War is an interaction in which two or more opposing forces have a "struggle of wills".  War is also a cultural entity, and its practice is not linked to any single type of political organization or society.

Over the last few months I've noticed that it's not hard to start "Wars" on Active Rain.  It's almost a good thing to be controversial, in most cases, to be known among the Active Rain community and/or help move your site rankings to the top of Google.  Plus, members are always interested in posting on topics to gain comments from their readers.  Here is my take on how to start an all out war and gain comments.

The first article I noticed that started an all out war was the post by Cathy Dick on her blog titled, "Remove my home staging signs from the home? Why?"  That prompted another article to be written by Matt Stigliano, "Can't We All Get Along? Stagers vs. Realtors vs. Sellers."  Matt's article generated 129 responses.  Some of the responses were in excess of 4 paragraphs.  Most of the people responding put as much time into their comment as they would've had they written their own blogs.  These blogs were great to read because they had so much material that prompted more discussion about a topic that is important to Realtors, running a successful Staging business and selling a home. 

Conclusion: Questioning Realtors decisions in a website forum with 159,295 members, most of which are Realtors, will result in a war.

The next article I noticed was Jeff Corbett's blog post titled, "Drug Cartels Cancerous Growth and the F*cked Mortgage Industry."  This blog inspired at least 3 other blogs that I'm aware of just on Jeff's title alone.  The post got hijacked by C Tann-Starr and TLW from club chaos and prompted people to even question why Active Rain Staff would allow such a post to be featured.  The comments are littered with videos of "use of the word F*CK", and other members dropping the F-Bomb.  There were 175 comments made on Jeff's post, including Jeff's when he said he loves this place. 

Conclusion: Using profanity in a public forum with 159,295 members, all with different backgrounds, religous beliefs, morals and cultures will result in a war.   War on Active Rain

Just when you thought all was back to normal the Healthcare Debate begins with a post by Nestor and Katerina Gasset titled, "Health-Care Options - Real Solutions For Real Issues" four days later.  While this post relates directly to Realtors, it is highly political.  It's been my experience that you either make really good friends or arch enemies when writing political posts.  The article clearly isn't meant to be political as it states, "This post is not about being Democrat or Republican. This is not a political issue; this is an American issue" right in the content. But how can a reader be unbiased and not take a political stance on this issue since it is currently debated so much by both political parties? 

Conclusion: Posts on highly debatable political topics will result in a big war.

So what do all these post have in common and why did I take the time to write this blog???  I thought it would be fun to give credit to some terrific authors.  I personally feel that all of these blog posts were great reads and opened my eyes.  I read a post yesterday by my friend, Brian Brady, about the first time homebuyer credit and it made me see a perspective I would have never thought of.  I refrained from commenting on his post because I felt like THAT homeowner telling the experienced Realtor how to negotiate a short sale.  You know the "one" I am talking about.  I also felt it was necessary to thank all the terrific members, staff and people who make Active Rain what it is.  This site has re-energized me after only four months of blogging, commenting and reading inspiring posts like the ones above.  Thank You! 

For information on purchasing or refinancing your home loan contact The Krushinsky Team at 602-695-7575 or email david@dkhomeloans.com.

86 commentsDavid Krushinsky • September 17 2009 08:21PM

Comments

David- another great post.

I recently started a few wars of my own on AR, I was tired of the drama so I deleted the blogs that originated the posts.  I'm not a pacifist, but I'm also not conflict driven individual.

My "Lets know our place & be nice" and "What does your pic say about you" blogs were written after someone criticized my picture on AR.  I'm a Loan Officer from San Antonio, what do you expect?

I respect folks that have the guts to post what they feel is important.  I guess it just depends on the character of the person replying to a blog, and sadly their mood.

 

Posted by Melissa Kulikoff (Texas Loan Officer) 11 months ago

David...

But they also result in a lot of comments and that can be a good thing!

Posted by Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate 11 months ago

Hard to believe that with all the "stuff" going on in the world that people can get so exorcised by a blog they disagree with.

Posted by Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker and Attorney Licensed in DC, MD, VA,Coldwell Banker (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Chevy Chase) 11 months ago

I think we all need to find something else to do with our time that is more important then getting upset over someones blogpost.

Posted by Heather Adkinson Moses Lake Real Estate Agent (Windermere K-2 Realty LLC www.propertiesinmoseslake.com) 11 months ago

PS thanks for the links to the good stuff, I appreicate it!

Posted by Heather Adkinson Moses Lake Real Estate Agent (Windermere K-2 Realty LLC www.propertiesinmoseslake.com) 11 months ago

Wars on ActiveRain??? 

Beats sitting around contemplating one's navel. 

We read, we learn, we participate, we express, we link, we write, we join, we are bloggers.

Yippee!  The dang thing works!

Posted by Lenn Harley, Real Estate Broker, Virginia & Maryland (Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate) 11 months ago

I love it. .the more controversial the better. . just don't posting about _______________ or I'll be over you like a pit bull on a chihuahua on heat

Posted by Fernando Herboso Broker: Check All www.ReallyNiceHomes.com in MD & VA (PrimeTime Realty Homes- Associate Broker 240.426.5754) 11 months ago

When you ask a question or make a statement here you just never know who is not going to like it. Its a fine line but a fun one.

Posted by Laura Jefferson (Acquire Real Estate) 11 months ago

War, ugh.  What is it good for?  Absolutely nothing!  I like a good debate but out and out war here on active rain is a turnoff to be.  I tend to want to avoid ugly conflicts so I "try" to shy away from political posts unless I absolutely can't help myself.

Posted by Susan Mangigian, West Chester PA Realtor RE/MAX Preferred, ABR (RE/MAX Preferred, West Chester, PA, RS152252A) 11 months ago

With some of the controversy here I think it looks fake and contrived but so does most of the big wars outside AR.

 

 

Posted by Maureen McCabe | Worthington OH (Real Living HER (HER Realtors) | (614) 388 - 8249) 11 months ago

War ... a very strong word. I beleive that we can all have our opinions on certain views. It's okay to disagree with someone but who is right? I like the color blue because I think it is a nce color and you don't ...... Let's start a debate. I don't think so. It's an opinion and we all have them. Can't we all get along and agree to disagree. Great post!

Posted by Jean Richer (Keller Williams ~ Ottawa Realty Ltd) 11 months ago

Good morning David,

Thoughtful commentary!  I am one of those who tends to shy away from conflict, especially when it pertains to politics or religion.  There are others who thrive on debate.  Why not have a place in AR for all of us?  Thanks.

Posted by Marcy Eastham (Town & Country Realty Corvallis Oregon) 11 months ago

David, I like Jean's answer up above.  I would like to call some of these a difference in opinion.  Then again, there's been quite a few words going around about the health care debate.  Those may qualify as a war!

Posted by Gabe Sanders, Stuart Florida Real Estate (Premier Realty Group) 11 months ago

David, I have found that when there is a topic worth discussing or that needs to be discussed the best way to achieve this is by writing a controversial post. I've written many of them. But I'm not writing them just to be controversial I'm writing them to get people to think. Including my sefl. It's how we learn

Posted by Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc 11 months ago

David,

Just life being played out here in front of our computer monitors. No blood though, which is a good thing.

Rich

Posted by Richard Iarossi, Crofton MD Real Estate, Annapolis MD Real Estate (Long and Foster® Real Estate, Inc.) 11 months ago

As long as depleted uranium isn't involved, a little healthy friction won't ruffle your feathers to terribly. And God-forbid someone should complain about your hairstyle. :-)

Posted by David Saks - Broker (The Real Estate Mart of Tennessee, Inc.) 11 months ago

David -

Wars? On ActiveRain? Heavens no! I'd rather call it "lively discussions." Clearly there are and always will be opposing views on any subject matter. If we all had the same opinions, this would be a dull, dull world indeed. There'd be nothing to talk about!

I agree that we can all act more civilly in our discussions - meaning, we can and should avoid the use of foul language. That's uncalled for - especially in forums that are open to the public. It also shows that you have a lack of any education. And there's no need to verbally attack anyone, either. After all, if you asked all members here on ActiveRain (now counting more than 159,000) to define "normal," you will get more than 159,000 definitions of "normal." What's normal to me might not be normal to you or anyone else. And what's normal to you might not be normal to me or anyone else. Just keep in mind that not everyone shares in your views, and by keeping an open mind, you just might learn something.

Now that you brought up the real estate agent who opposed the stager's sign at her listing: Seems to me that if the real estate agent is adamantly opposed to the stager's sign that so should the home stager be adamantly opposed to the real estate agent's sign. In that case, the property does NOT belong to the real estate agent - it belongs to the home owner. It's not the real estate agent's place to question to posting of the home stager's sign at his or her "listing." The home owner - and only the home owner - gets to decide what sign - if any - is prominently displayed on his or her lawn.

Just my two cents worth.

Posted by Lew Corcoran - Offering Reverse Mortgages, and FHA, VA, and USDA Loans (Star Mortgage® - Serving Massachusetts and Florida) 11 months ago

I definitely see that a little controversy draws response on AR.  A few days ago, I noticed a post about the first-time buyer tax credit; to extend, expand, or not.  It's clear that there are at least a couple of distinct camps on that subject.  Since that post, there have been multiple other posts on the topic, all generating many comments.  It's healthy, useful debate as long as we don't get personal or nasty about it.

-Scott

Posted by The Scott Loper Team Lansdale & Harleysville PA Homes (RE/MAX Realty Group) 11 months ago

Hi There David, interesting post with reference to other interesting posts we had missed!  Looks like the dabate continues....

Posted by Al and Peggy Cunningham, Brokers Voted Best Real Estate People Brampton (RE/MAX Realty Services Inc. Buying or Selling) 11 months ago

David:

I agree with Lewis (#17 above), not war just a very lively discussion on several threads. 

I realize I have been keeping my posts to dry market reports, but his is going to change shortly.  I have read severla recently on the subject of the tax credit, and have not made my thoughts known,  This is going to be corrected - my actions not those of congress.

Posted by Bob Force (REALTOR®) Silver Spring, Md. (Weichert Realtors® - Aspen Hill/Leisure World) 11 months ago

Hi Dave a war really is the failure to negotiate thru non violent means. So wars with the big aside of the techie things that spring out of them are generally bad. Nobody gets convinced ,nobody changes their mind. The strong rather than the correct survive. But I did enjoy the quality of this post

Posted by Charlie- All Mountain Realty 11 months ago

These days it seems like there are too many people who are actively LOOKING for confrontation...

Posted by Brian Schulman - Your Lancaster County, PA Real Estate Professional (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals, Lancaster PA) 11 months ago

WTF???

Sorry, I just could NOT resist...I am with Susan, there is nothing "civil" about war. However I do not mind controversy, It's just that the tone of some people these days is disagreement is taken as a personal insult with no attempt to reach compromise. Or at the very least, agree to disagree!

Posted by Russell Lewis, Broker,CLHMS,GRI (AvenueOne Properties, Austin Texas Real Estate) 11 months ago

Hi David. Sometimes things can get out of hand. However I tend to stay away from online drama wars. I notice though that some people simply cannot agree to disagree. Comments are nice though so in that respect at least it stirs up alot of comments thus alot of points which can be a good thing :-)

Posted by Lana Robbins Realtor ®, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs, New Port Richey, FL (Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC) 11 months ago

David - First of all, thanks for the mention (always nice to see my post linked to as a point of reference).  That post was quite an exciting post for me and generated a ton of discussion offline as well.  It also was discussed on realtor.org, which I was surprised by.  Anyway, now that my ego has calmed down, here's my thoughts.

I like your use of the word "war."  I don't think any of these were quite "war," but as several have said more like lively discussion.  However, I see the value of using the word "war" in your post.  Yes, some of them did spark quite a clash of opinion and ideas, but it's the outcome that matters most.  I am definitely a fan of inciting some "war" in order to come out the other side with some new ideas.

Posted by Matt Stigliano (RE/MAX Access (210) 646-HOME) 11 months ago

The alternative sounds....

 

...boring.

Imagine an internet post that acted like most people at a party, trying hard not to be noticed, not saying anything to offend, remaining neutral and politically correct.

I would like to see Realtors who have the courage to say to their clients what they say on the forums.

Posted by Dave Williams (Real Estate at the Speed of Life) 11 months ago

Great post. Commenting on blogs, message boards, and forums tend to bring out the Junior High School kid in many people and turns grown adults into childish idiots. The anonymity on these forums embolden them to say things they wouldn't normally say when their name is attached. Fortuntately on ActiveRain, we all know who we are, coupled with the fact that most of are professionals and more importantly, act professional, so the debate on these blogs stays civil and adds to the ongoing learning experience.

Posted by Michael Myers (King-Rhodes & Associates) 11 months ago

I enjoy a good debate, here or otherwise. What I cannot stand (seriously, my neck is getting splotchy just thinking about it) is all of the polical posts here that don't move a conversation forward and lack any kind of well reasoned argument. Anyone who only regurgitates the talking points put forth by Bill O on the right or Keith O on the left (Socialism! Death panels! Heartless capitalist!) really needs to just sit on their hands.

Posted by Julia Odom, Chattanooga Homes for Sale (Select Realty Professionals) 11 months ago

I dont think it is intended to start a war in as much as it is intended to generate conversation. Usually, someone will chime in in such a way as to start and/or accelerate a conflict. But, that really (for the most part) is not the intent of the author.The author can not control the reactions of the reader any more than we can control the weather.

But, I can certainly see your point. :-)

Excuse me while I go make it rain.... :-)

Posted by Clint Miller (Real Estate Client Referrals, LLC (RECR)) 11 months ago

You can call it a war on AR...and indeed, I believe some people write specifically to stir the pot.  But the reality is that we can have healthy dialogues because we live in a country where we are free to do so.  And that rocks!  There's a lot of places in the world where you're not free to disagree. 

Posted by Bob Haywood, www.BobHaywood.com (McGraw Realtors) 11 months ago

David,

There have been some firestorms lately. I question whether or not they belong on a real estate forum. I want to be seen as something positive for the most part and when I have a rant, it is going to be members only.

Thanks for the post.

Patrick

Posted by Patrick Randles (Sunstreet Mortgage, LLC) 11 months ago

David,

Great post, thanks for all the links too. And no matter what you call it their a whole lot of fun !

:)

Posted by Jody Keating Connective Realty,LLC, Bryan/College Station,TX 11 months ago

Hi,

War or not it's to let the ones who are always agreeing with everybody and everything to know,that there is someone who has a different opinion.When he or she will not be allowed to express it there is going to be war.

Everyone is entitled to his or her own opinion,just like everyone is entitled to be at war with the ones who violating Constitution of United States stepped without permission on  territory of private property of American citizens.

I'm at war with the ones who did this to me !

Zijuzijazijana

Posted by Eva Erdmann (Lion International Inc.) 11 months ago

I do find it interesting that some folks feel you must agree with their point of view - because it is right!  No thought of a variety of sides to an opinion.  Isn't there a saying, "You can disagree but don't be disagreeable?" 

Posted by Susan Brown (Keller Williams NE, Kingwood Texas (Humble & Atascocita too)) 11 months ago

David: One thing is for sure. Everyone has their own opinion and you know what they say about that.

There are many great topics here in the rain and not everyone is going to agree on every one of them. This is one of the great things with Active Rain.  As Lenn stated above "We read, we learn, we participate, we express, we link, we write, we join, we are bloggers."

Lets see what kind of a debate comes with this post :)  

Posted by Roland Woodworth,SFR - Clarksville Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (Exit Realty Clarksville) 11 months ago

David: Good thoughts. I appreciate them very much. I occasionally see wars started here and think that certain individuals like to do that. The thing I don't like seeing is when the bloggers or commenters bash others and pull out their years of experience, etc. to justify their position. When a person starts losing their humility, God help them! Thanks again!

Posted by Paul McFadden Mortgage Loan Officer Bellevue Washington Home Loans (The Legacy Group) 11 months ago

David,

When you've got something that needs to be said, a point to make, an argument to present, what better place than a forum of nearly 160,000 real estate professionals!

Mike in Tucson

Posted by Mike Jones (SUNSTREET MORTGAGE, LLC) 11 months ago

David:

I thik thatm in large part, is what blogging is all about. No one can expect everyone to agree with them all the time, especially when the issues themselves are controversial. I have no issue with controversy as it's real life. I do have an issue when some writers engage in behavior that is really inappropriate and when it involved personal attacks. Guess I just don't see the need for that. Nor do I care to spend my limited time reading that sort of stuff. My opinion.

Jeff

Posted by Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate ~ 760-840-1360 (RE/MAX Moonlight Beach (CA DRE Lic. # 01490977)) 11 months ago

I just went and read the f*ck blog, and I'm glad I did.  Made me remember why this Country is so great.  I can still say the f word as long as I put an * in it.  Good post.  Remember, we have the RIGHT to get offended.  In other countries, they have to keep their "feelings" a secret.

Posted by Doug Leugers- Principal Broker/Owner (APEX Realty Group) 11 months ago

any time there is something to have an opinion about where there is the possibility to disagree and the more passionate you are about something well....????

Posted by Greater Mortgage Solutions & Valley Hills Realty 11 months ago

David- Thanks so much for the mention and the link love! Controversy is the one of the best ways for all the reasons you mentioned.

There are two types of posts that gain a lot of comments and I don't like to confuse the two. One is the gossipy type high school drama which I stay away from because it makes everyone look immature and petty. I have found out through my friends that a few have been written about me. I don't even know when it happens because I am busy moving on.

The great posts to garner a lot of google juice and comments are the ones you discussed in your post. Political posts, those on real estate topics that are highly divided and others of great substance. I love the controversial posts for more than google juice. They are a great way to learn how other people think and different viewpoints. I also believe that they should be made public and not members only for the most part.

My health debate post that you mentioned got a ton of google juice from non members. I had people from around the world, Britain, Canada and Australia send me comments. I had comments in my email from feedburner subscribers. I had phone calls in support and telling their stories. It was phenominal! I don't even remember how many reblogs that post got.

I just wrote a post on Tuesday about why short sales and loan mods get turned down. It has over 28 reblogs and people all over the internet are asking me permission to post that article on outside media outlets and blogs. This is how you go viral with a post and going viral is huge in gaining subscribers and clients.

Research has clearly shown as well as proof from my own blog- we are the #3 most subscribed to blog on Active Rain- that polarizing an audience is much more profitable than refusing to take a stand and being wishy washy. I am political and I stand up for what I believe. People who are totally opposite of me in beliefs respect me for that. We had one couple list their house with us tell us: "We are totally different than you on politics- but we love how you take a stand- you stand up for what you believe and we feel because you do that on a public platform you certainly would do that for us in negotiating for us with our short sale listing!" 

But even more important than that- when you are controversal you get super loyalty from clients who believe and think like you. Since like kind attracts like kind- those are the match clients for you. You can not be all things to all people and not everyone is going to like you and I certainly don't want to work with people who don't like me. Life is too short- live it with people you like and want to be around! Katerina

Posted by Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.) 11 months ago

Controversial topics are a great way to learn about different ideas and enable us to question and hone our own.  I have been moved to change my 'position' on several topics by engaging in some friendly back and forth debate/discussion.

Also, even when/if I'm not persuaded to change my views, the debate helps me understand where others are coming from and hopefully help all of us to find middle ground that works for everyone.

Posted by Tim and Susan Fennell (Hometown Realty of Duval, Inc.) 11 months ago

Thanks David - cool post.  For anyone who doesn't like the controversy, please see this as a chance to hone your skills of working with people who DO like conflict.  Some personality types love to compete, debate, spar, etc.  We are drawn to controversy like a moth to the flame.  We shout, we curse, we gesticulate.  You may call it "junior high" but without us, the world would never change.

Since it is just an online forum, I suggest keeping your PERSPECTIVE light.  All those World of Warcrafters are cursing at each other, too, but boy, do they enjoy the heck out of that game.

I'm laughing way too loudly at this point!  Thanks for the chuckle.

Posted by Dianne Bartlett (Keller Williams) 11 months ago

I, too, liked your use of the word "war" in your post, David.

Lenn's response had me rolling for a minute or two.

Some people (Richard W. ! :-), for example) have definietly been known to start a war here deliberately...but always for the purpose of expanding our minds and knowledge about whatever they are posting about.

Even if we don't comment on a "war" post, we all can learn something by just reading them, and the comments that they have generated.

Posted by William James Walton, Sr. Greater Waterbury Real Estate (Century21 Access America) 11 months ago

I think that some folks just like to mix it up and play the other side. As for me, I keep my comments pretty middle of the road. One of the reasons that I'm on AR is to promote my business, and I'm not sure it reflects well on professionals to align themselves strongly with a certain side of the coin.

Posted by Melissa Zavala Realtor® North San Diego County Homes (Broadpoint Properties) 11 months ago

Hi, David.  This is just like following the sequels of Rocky.  : )  Thanks for posting this, I visited the featured blogs you mentioned.  I think 'war' is a bit strong, but spirited discussion is always intriguing to me.  If you really want to read heated discussions, visit the political blogs on AR and you'll see what I mean.

Congrats on the feature!

Posted by Yolanda Hoversten - O'Fallon, IL Real Estate Broker (Prudential One Realty Centre) 11 months ago

I love lively debate war, especially when it involves brain cells.  I hate political drama because that usually involves towing party lines (parrotting something they heard on their favorite right or left radio or tv show) and doesn't necessarily involve brain cells.

Some guy started WAR with me on another person's blog yesterday.  (flat fee vs full service).  I was defending his (flat fee) right to exist and he just picked me up out of the blue and started with me.  He got personal with his first attack so I am getting personal with him.  I am sure if someone on AR sees it I will get a spanking.

I define WAR as a personal attack/insult.  I define lively debate as someone who attacks the issue and gives good reason why they are against without attacking the person.

Posted by Renee Burrows - Las Vegas NV Valley - Homes For Sale - Real Estate Market News (The Force Realty -Realtor>Estate>Probate>REO>Short Sale) 11 months ago

Radiation...from a monitor not fall out from an nuclear blast...(whew) It takes a little controversy to cause change, growth, movement. If someone feels differently about something...it does not make them wrong..and listening to their perspective, their take on the matter should be able to move both parties toward the middle, to come together. Duck in the meantime, keep your head down AR soldier.

Posted by Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY) 11 months ago

Hi David,

Loved your post! You're very astute.  :)

 

Flame wars, whether on line or in person, are a fact of life.....and if they're not, well then.....please invite me to your Thanksgiving dinner! 

 

Stirring up poo just for the sake of creating a stink is a waste of everyone's time.  But if there are things that we feel strongly about, and can couch those subjects in civil terms, well then, I say, have at it!

Sometimes I love reading the controversial posts.....though when I feel the vein throbbing in my neck I know it's time to back off and spend time reviewing "Wordless Wednesday" photos.

 

Have a great weekend!

 

And I dare ANYONE to challenge me on that! :)

Posted by Coleen DeGroff - Haile Plantation Real Estate - Gainesville FL - (Coldwell Banker M.M. Parrish) 11 months ago

I think a lot of people are so attention starved that they would do ANYTHING to get attention including wage an unnecessary flame war. :)

At the same time, I honor anyone's right to post/comment. Like Voltaire said in his famous quote.

I agree with you that ALL the authors of the posts you named are good ones.

Posted by Candice A Donofrio, Broker Fort Mohave, AZ Txt 928-201-4242 11 months ago

Great post David.The "War" blogs are great. They really make you read the comments. Who shares the same opinion, who disagrees ... it triggers me when I see a War, VS or something similar in the title.

Posted by Haris Dedic (Prime Realty Group 847-878-2588) 11 months ago

I enjoy reading and sometimes even learning from posts that are controversial or that I may / may not agree with. Sometimes these blog posts help further important discussions.

Posted by W. Darrell Walters - Integrity Mortgage Funding 11 months ago

Hey daKrusher. Nice to see you here again. I was intrigued by the title which I saw on Twitter. :) Kate

Posted by Kate Ford Mortgage Translator (Get Your Best Mortgage Rate & Prime Real Estate Articles) 11 months ago

Thank all of you for the great comments!  I stayed up late last night having some cocktails, enjoying the evening with my beautiful wife. 

I decided to use the word WAR in the title, and throughout the article, as a metaphor to describe the articles hyperlinked in my blog.  There obviously wasn't any bloodshed but there was a "war of words" in most of cases.  Like Lenn was correct in saying, "We read, we learn, we participate, we express, we link, we write, we join, we are bloggers."

Broker Bryant - If you shoot one of my pre-approvals I will go straight to the board. LOL I know you and your "Lovely Wife" are good at controversial posts.  I enjoy reading them because they do educate me.

Russell - WTF, loved it... you can use that anytime on my blogs buddy.

Matt "Rockstar" Stigliano - No problem on the mention Rockstar... love your blogs.  You deserve the credit.

Dave Williams - Imagine an internet post that acted like most people at a party, trying hard not to be noticed, not saying anything to offend, remaining neutral and politically correct. - Won't happen at any of my parties.... I threw a party a few years back and a brand new girl in the office, who didn't like me, came over.  She started making some rude comments about me to my wife, which she wasn't aware we were married.  I tossed her in my pool with all of her clothes on.  Now that's how to make it interesting.

I would like to see Realtors who have the courage to say to their clients what they say on the forums. - I think some of the stronger opinionated ones actually do.

Clint - Make it RAIN baby.

William James Walton - I'm not sure that I've read a lot of Richard's post that are super controversial but he takes some awesome pictures. 

Renee - I was waiting for my LV girl to comment.  Shoot me the link to the blog so I can check it out. 

Candice - Love the Voltaire quote.  Luna is so cute too....

Posted by David Krushinsky (Mortgage Professional - Phoenix, AZ - NMLS 202115) 11 months ago

Sometimes the "wars" are a good thing.  They make you think.  You get to see the other side of the coin.  You get to read some awesome posts and meet some new characters.

Posted by Carol Pease ABR, CDPE, CRS, SFR (512) 721-6320 ( Keller Wiliams Realty - Cedar Park, TX ) 11 months ago

I have been in several wars on AR...and I am glad to say I have backed out of all of them.

The smoldering ruins of those dissagreements are still in the air in AR...and a new group was spawned from one of them too.

Politics and religious dissagreemnts will ALWAYS start a war... it is just up to YOU to either jump in and state your opinion and be prepared to defend it, or just move on.

;-)

Posted by Chicago, Illinois homes for sale ---- Alexander Harb (My Real Estate Referral L.L.C.) 11 months ago

I wanted to address your post in a separate comment Katerina.  Thank you for taking the time to write so much terrific information.  You're right, high school drama is not why any of us should be here.  It's cool to have friends and banter back and forth with them.  I haven't known Brian Brady for a long time but I would consider him a friend.  On his hyperlink I titled it America's #2 Mortgage Broker just for a good laugh.  When you start posting blogs about people, that is taking it a little too far. 

I loved your explanation on why you chose to write about political topics related to real estate. Going viral and getting Google to rank my articles relating to real estate is what I'm here for.  I would agree that an author that takes a "stand" is going to polarize like-like to attract.  That's why I felt compelled to include your post in my article. 

"Life is too short- live it with people you like and want to be around!" ~ Katerina Gasset

Posted by David Krushinsky (Mortgage Professional - Phoenix, AZ - NMLS 202115) 11 months ago

@MortgageBuddy thank you for checking it out Kate and for the RT! 

Posted by David Krushinsky (Mortgage Professional - Phoenix, AZ - NMLS 202115) 11 months ago

Good post. Some interesting issues to think about. I like post that introduce thought provoking topics.

Posted by Bryan Fagan (JN&B Reallty LLC) 11 months ago

Religon and politics make strange blog posts bedfellows.

Posted by Carla Muss-Jacobs Principal Broker/Owner EBA Portland LLC | www.EBAPortland.com | (Exclusive Buyers Agent Beaverton Portland) 11 months ago

Hi David -- It's much easier to not have any inhibitors between one's beta waves and keyboard, especially when you throw in the dynamic mix you illustrated.

Posted by Chris Olsen Broker Owner Cleveland Ohio Real Estate (Olsen Ziegler Realty) 11 months ago

Hi David - Any online community of this size is sure to have it's share of diversity and passion across several topics. To me that's a sign of the site's health and vitality.

Posted by John Novak - Las Vegas and Henderson NV Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty The Marketplace) 11 months ago

The very best we ever had on AR was back in 2006...

What you've seen ain't nothing compared to that.

There were Members actually running background checks on each and posting the results.

Peace :)

TLW...ROAR!

Posted by "The Lovely Wife" (Broker Bryant's Wife) The One And Only TLW. (President-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc.) 11 months ago

Wars on active rain?  agents, brokers, staggers all getting mad at each other on the Rain?  I thought we could all get along on the Rain!  I think a heated discussion is great for your personal press.  

Posted by Tim Krueger (Corona del Mar Properties) 11 months ago

I KNEW this would get a feature . . . LOL TLW -- the BLOG WAR Of '06 . . .

Why aren't we all SINGING IN THE RAIN and getting along??

Posted by Carla Muss-Jacobs Principal Broker/Owner EBA Portland LLC | www.EBAPortland.com | (Exclusive Buyers Agent Beaverton Portland) 11 months ago

There have been some doozies here of late, but for the most part, all have generated great writing and interesting opinions.  Thanks for hi-lighting some of the good ones!

Posted by Amy Salisbury West Virginia Realtor/Jefferson/Berkeley (Leading Edge Properties) 11 months ago

I also think the word "war" does not appropriately characterize legitimate debate or discussion. As a life-long student of psychology, I know by now that most people I observe in life are conflict adverse to the point of being so politically correct it is impossible to have a truly authentic discussion with them. These are the same people who speak and write in sound bites and when you ask them how they are, they are always "FANTASTIC!" I prefer the more imperfect "truth" in relationships, even online relationships.

Posted by Deborah Ryman, M.A. Feng Shui Services, Santa Cruz County (Creative Harmony) 11 months ago

David....controversy, wars...ah blogging, that is what keeps the members Active...

Posted by Rebecca Gaujot Lewisburg WV Realtor (Coldwell Banker Stuart & Watts Real Estate) 11 months ago

OMG...WTF...that stands for "Oh My Googly-eyes...Where's the fruit???" according to my middle school son!  :o)))  Sometimes I think that some of the comments in these AR skirmishes are a little over the top...but hey, that's what makes America great...we are all entitled to our opinions!  I am curious about starting wars to get Google Juice...hmmmm....perhaps I should toss some errant bombs every now and again!  I love the post!

Posted by Jeani T. Richie-Broker-CRS-GRI-SFR-EXIT Hill Country Realty 11 months ago

As Inspector Kemp said in Young Frankenstein, "A riot is an ugly thing....undt, I think, that it is chust about time ve had vun".

Posted by Joe Pryor.com REALTOR® Oklahoma Investment Properties (Redbud Realty) 11 months ago

David, the F-bomb one surprised me, so I guess if anyone really wants to start a war, it's not that hard. Can't we all just get along? What is wrong with that? The thing I think everyone forgets, is in reality we are making impressions on others about ourselves. There is no denying that David.

Posted by Gary Woltal - Assoc. Broker REALTOR® SFR Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty) 11 months ago

Well every one has an opinion and most people love to give their opinion.....often it's the opposite of ours if you've noticed.

I don't get caught up in this kind of stuff.

Patricia

Posted by PATRICIA AULSON, REALTOR Portsmouth NH Homes-Hampton NH Homes (PRUDENTIAL VERANI REALTY- Portsmouth NH Real Estate ) 11 months ago

When everyone agrees, nobody really learns anything.  But, in a good fight, one CAN learn a lot. 

Posted by Lane Bailey - REALTOR & Car Guy (Diamond Dwellings Realty) 11 months ago

Ah David... I wrote a blog after the F-bomb episode about freedom of speech/our AR right to just sound off in a safe space.

So ... let's all just agree to disagree and be able to THINK and ARGUE in a respectful way.

Posted by Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate 11 months ago

I like this post...maybe calling it war is over the top to some people, but conflict that gets as emotional as it does here makes it to the war page in my book. Many of us know at least one or two people who left AR after a bitter battle of words.

Emotions can't convey online. Intended humor, sarcasm, teasing...words can sound much more harsh, or cold, or mean on our monitor.

Maybe it's only an internal war...but often we have casualties.

I try not to comment (much) on warlike posts. I'm glad they exist, but they do turn me into a spectator.

Posted by Dawn Maloney, CDRS Elite (RE/MAX Commitment) 11 months ago

I love a good debate, so I am always up for it!  A good war is just one of the many reasons that I keep coming back to AR!!!

Posted by Emily Lowe - Nashville TN Realtor (The Lipman Group Sotheby's International Realty) 11 months ago

David,

These localized wars are fun to follow sometimes. People can really get charged up, offering many different angles to the issues at hand. Some of them are truly eye-opening.

Posted by Esko Kiuru 11 months ago

I like the wars.  I have met some very interesting bloggers here from me wondering, "Geez!  Who would say such a thing online with their name and logo on it?"  Sometimes a horrible comment leads me to a really nice person - just shows how upset people can get when you push their buttons.

I usually stay out of it - I am not that passionate about proving my point, but I sure do enjoy them.

Posted by Virginia Hepp - Mesquite NV MLS - Sun City Mesquite - Buyer Representative (ERA - Mesquite NV Homes For Sale) 11 months ago

I am not sure about calling the debate that some here on AR have, "war". Especially in today's charged climate.

Posted by James Lyon (Vista Pacific Realty) 11 months ago
It seems to me you've already learned how to catch attention via your post title. I know I was curious. You've come up with several ways to start "wars" here in the Rain.
Posted by Christine Donovan Costa Mesa Real Estate Broker/Attorney 800-610-7253 DRE01267479 (Donovan Blatt Team - Donovan Group Realty) 11 months ago


As long as, it stay somewhat civil I think it's fun. I don't think that it shuld ever be a personal attack. But warring over a hot subject can really make you start to think and maybe even to look up some stuff you should already know.

Posted by Sandy Childs - Spartnaburg, SC Realtor® (Keller Williams Realty) 11 months ago

David:

"I would like to see Realtors who have the courage to say to their clients what they say on the forums."

Actually, I think some of the venting that goes on here helps to prevent some of that from happening, and, that's probably a good thing. 

 

Posted by Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel) 11 months ago

It can be said of ActiveRain, "The fun never stops!"

Those who become absolutely polarized over an issue probably deserve it. ;-)

Posted by Orange County SEO | SEM | Photography Dave Keys 888-216-1231 (Dave Keys SEO, Web Marketing, Photography, Video) 11 months ago

This one cracks me up. I get it. I try to stay out of it and away fron it. 

Posted by Teresa Boardman (Saint Paul Home Realty) 11 months ago

David - "I tossed her in my pool with all of her clothes on.  Now that's how to make it interesting."  ROTFLMAO!!!

OMG!  Wish I could have seen that.  LOL!  Great post David.  I remember those posts and they were a lively bunch of discussions indeed, espceially Jeff's and all the complaining posts about his F-bomb.

Posted by Donne Knudsen, NMLS#249822, DRE#01364050 (Cobalt Financial Corp.) 10 months ago

gosh I did NOT remember this post but I commented ...so I must have read it.   I was looking for the posts that Jeff inspired with his post in August 2009...  when he used  the dreaded F word. 

He's on the dashboard again and has offended some in using words about women being hormonal to describe the mortgage market now.

 

 

Posted by Maureen McCabe | Worthington OH (Real Living HER (HER Realtors) | (614) 388 - 8249) 3 months ago

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