Twelve observations related to real estate.Similar to flying, it is not unusual to encounter a few bumps when buying and selling. This real estate turbulence happens anytime between signing up with a listing agent and the final settlement day.   I read a list of items that a pilot won't always tell you, and this triggered a list of things that agents may not want you to know about the real estate transaction.        I have encountered all of them and want to share my observations. Each could be a book chapter or a stand-alone blog post. 1. Houses sell houses, and people foul up deals.2. Avoid settlements early in the morning on Mondays or late  Fridays.3. Don't turn the keys over until the settlement is funded.4. Don't let a seller know a contract is coming in... Always wait until the o... 04/13/2024

 A few years back, a lovely young family hired me to help them sell their house. They were looking for a bigger space for their new baby and a better school district and wanted my assistance. After completing all the necessary paperwork and agreeing on a listing price, we took photos of the property and made a list of required repairs and updates. Unfortunately, there were some deferred maintenance issues that we had to deal with before selling the property.When I called to check on their progress, I was pleasantly surprised that they had almost completed everything on our checklist. They had done a lot of purging to prepare for their next move, evident in the sparkling clean house. I stopped by for a visit and was amazed at how different the house looked.What happened next was somethin... 04/12/2024

Affordable Housing and an Investment Multi-Unit in Baltimore County3801 Annapolis Road, Halethorpe, MD 212273 Unit Multi Family with potential for a 4th unitUnit A: 2 bedroom and 1 bath; $1200; occupiedUnit B: 1 bedroom and 1 bath: $1040; occupiedUnit C: 1 bedroom and 1 bath; $1200 projected; vacantPotential Unit D: Studio; Currently has a half bath; $800 potenialRoof is less than 4 years oldProperty includes 2 washers and 2 dryersEach unit has a refrigerator and an ovenProperty has parking for 6+ vehiclesProperty does not have separate meteringUnit A: Has attic access for plentiful storageConvenient location for tenants with light rail station about a half mile away providing easy transportation to BWI Airport, Baltimore City, and up to Hunt ValleyGreat alternative to the more expensiv... 04/12/2024

As a real estate broker, I understand the significance of advertising in the industry. Our friend and mentor, Barbara Todaro, the marketing guru, shared and encouraged all of us, especially me. While the internet has revolutionized the way we market properties, traditional forms of advertising, such as print and radio, are still incredibly valuable. I always use a combination of advertising methods for my clients, including online and offline options. This allows me to reach many potential buyers and sellers, increasing their property's exposure.Advertising is crucial for reaching out to people who may not be as comfortable with technology. By placing ads in print media and airing them on my live radio show, I can target potential clients who may not be actively searching online.Propert... 04/06/2024

Did you know that it is National Map Reading Day?This morning, an email from Terry Green from PRMG asked the following question."What would you do if the directional satellites went down? Can you get from point A to point B without using a finger and thumb to zoom in?" Hmm. How many of us could still function without our Waze, Apple Maps, Google Maps, or any apps, including GPS? Do we know where we are? Do we know where we are going? Remember when we had to rely on ADC books, paper maps, and our sense of direction to find our way around? They were not fun days for me, but I think they were the main reason I became a listing agent. When selling Real Estate, it's much easier to find one location than several with buyers in tow.I fondly remember calling my husband TLH and asking, "Where am... 04/05/2024

#5 Best City to Live in Maryland - TowsonIn keeping with a theme, The World Atlas recently published a list of the 7 best cities to live in Maryland. The number 5 city is Towson. Towson is the county seat for Baltimore County and home to Towson University. Towson is located just north of Baltimore City. Towson's proximity to Baltimore City, its excellent public schools, and its proximity to parks and recreational facilities make it a popular choice for homeowners.It is a little-known fact that Maryland doesn't have any natural lakes, even though some bodies of water are called lakes. Loch Raven Reservoir is the largest body of water in Baltimore County, it holds 23 billion gallons of water and has over 60 miles of hiking trails.My youngest son is a graduate of Towson High School, we bel... 04/01/2024

Caring for your home can seem daunting, but it doesn't have to be! You can keep your home safe and in good condition by following easy steps. Here are some things you can do to help keep your home in great shape: - Check your roof every spring for any damage or missing shingles. If you find any problems, call a professional to fix them. Don't use a pressure washer on your roof, which can cause damage. Clean your gutters and downspouts, and confirm they're attached securely to your home. Fix any leaks to make sure the water drains away from your house. - Look for cracks in your driveway, walkways, and pool deck. Repair them as soon as possible to avoid more significant problems later. - Check your outside faucets to make sure they're not leaking and the is flowing correctly. - Keep your ... 03/31/2024

Spring is a great time to start thinking about selling your house and finding a new home. There are many decisions to make, including whether to move, where to move, and what you're looking for.You are thinking about moving, getting your home ready for sale, and more about where you will live. You need help finding the right buyer for your home, and I am here to help.  Buying And Selling A HomeCall Margaret Romema  03/30/2024

Finding The Right Agent-Are They  Listening To You Find a REALTOR® who genuinely cares about your needs and takes an active interest in listening to you.Consider whether the agent works full-time or has a side job, as real estate is a full-time career. Ask if they have a buyer's or seller's plan and if they can guide you through the entire process. Also, determine if the agent will serve you personally or pass you off to a team member.  During your interaction with the agent, evaluate whether they ask questions about you or talk about themselves. Determining whether it's a consultation or a sales pitch is important.You should also know if they have years of experience in the market you're interested in and can answer your questions intelligently. It is important to have a real estate ag... 03/29/2024

A few years back, I was selected to list a home. However, the seller had a relative who used to be an agent and wanted to meet me. I had to go through another interview with the seller's relative, a retired and pessimistic agent who had worked in another state ten years ago. During the interview, the former agent said nothing has changed in real estate over the past 30 years except for technology. Anyone can sell a house in this market by putting it on the MLS and waiting for competing offers. When informed that I needed to share all information and negotiations with the pessimistic retired agent, I declined the listing and wished the seller well. I will share the outcome of the sale one day, but it was not in the owner's best interest.  Here is a list of situations to illustrate that r... 03/25/2024

 Double the Flair  Furnished and Bare!" Buyers look at a home in different ways. Some may not be able to picture how a house would look with its furnishings, while others may prefer to imagine it as a blank space.  As a seller, you can accommodate the buyer's needs and preferences while prioritizing your interests. Selling a furnished house can help buyers visualize how to utilize each room and make the house feel more like a home. On the other hand, selling an unfurnished house presents a blank canvas for buyers to imagine their belongings. To cater to both types of buyers, take photographs of your furnished and unfurnished house. Double the Flair Furnished and Bare! 03/20/2024

Just Opened - Simply Made HereSimply Made Here had its grand opening on Saturday and the shop was all a buzz with shoppers looking for unique finds. And, unique items they found too. All the items in the store are locally sourced and truly unique. You'll find unique jewelry items made from sea glass and other materials, mosaic wall plaques and also decorative resin plaques, items for your pets and your kids, unique Maryland food items and candles, and many other decorative items. There are many Maryland-themed items in the shop too. In addition to the items, there is also a makers studio where they will be holding classes, there are a few on the schedule already - check them out!The shop is conveniently located at 2302 Frederick Rd, Catonsville, MD 21228 on the right side as you drive t... 03/18/2024

 Dream home -All-brick charming Colonial3500 Fallstaff RdBaltimore, MD mls mdba2100322Welcome to your new dream home in the charming neighborhood of Fallstaff, northwest Baltimore! This beautiful all-brick colonial house is everything you have been looking for. From the exquisite Flemish bond brickwork to the well-maintained landscaped corner lot, this home will impress you from the moment you set foot on the property.  As you step inside, you will be greeted by a cozy vestibule leading to a spacious foyer that separates the formal living and dining rooms.  The custom-built house features mahogany and oak extensively throughout, adding to its warmth and charm. The updated kitchen with granite counters, stainless steel appliances, wood cabinets, and a breakfast bar is perfect for all you... 03/15/2024

Catonsville Food Truck Thursdays Starts March 14, 2024Food Truck Thursdays are back in 21228 starting March 14, 2024!! The trucks will be set up at the Christian Temple Church at 5820 Edmondson Ave, Catonsville, MD 21228 and food is served from 4 pm to 8 pm.Ice Cold Drinks will be sold at the red tents. The proceeds from the drink sales go towards the Catonsville 4th of July Parade and Fireworks.The lineup for vendors this year are:Greek on the StreetWanna Pizza This Food TrucksBreaking The Borders Food TruckDeli-ish DundalkAuntie Anne's Central Maryland Pretzel TruckBebo's Mac ShackTaco Bar Food TruckJackson's BakerySoul 2 SoulThe Daily Crepe CompanyKona Ice of CatonsvilleI live and sell homes in Catonsville and support local businesses!! See you there!! 03/13/2024

3436 Halcyon Road Stevenson 21153MLSMDBC2048248Unique Homes May Take Longer To SellThis 90-year-old farmhouse sits on 2.6 acres of beautiful Stevenson land and is looking for a new owner. With over 50 windows and four finished levels, the house features classic and timeless designs, five to six bedrooms (including two primary suites), and 3 1/2 baths. For more information on this unique homeCall Margaret Rome 03/13/2024

  Today is the second Sunday of March, which means we will be "Springing Forward" at 2 a.m. Don't forget to set your clocks ahead by an hour. It's a good idea to remind people with Sunday appointments about the time change so they can be on time. Also, I have a noon radio show, so please account for the time change and tune in accordingly.                                            When it's time to sell your homeCall Margaret Rome 03/09/2024

Two O'clock Tuesdays Join the weekly Zoom meetings and become a part of a community where each member has something valuable to contribute, share, and learn. Over the past four years, we have had an impressive list of speakers, making this platform an excellent opportunity to connect with members with creativity, knowledge, and insight. As busy professionals, our time is valuable.   Feel free to join the discussion every Tuesday or whenever you can. Think about- Who would you nominate for a speaking opportunity and why?- Whose expertise would you like to learn from?-What would you ask them if you had the opportunity? Two things to do this month1-Take a look at the  March Challenge2-Click HERE to join Two O'clock Tuesdays Selling a home Call Margaret Rome    03/07/2024

When you can't find that perfect home! Build it! 6 Saddlebrook Lane Lot# 10 is available!   "Build Your Dream Home in the Luxurious Bridle Ridge Community How long have you been looking for your dream home? Why not consider building it instead? You can do that in the luxurious Bridle Ridge community in Stevenson, Maryland.6  Saddlebrook Lane lot 10 is available!  This gated community offers privacy, security, and a perfect blank slate to bring your dream home to life.Pass the horses and entrance of The Odyessy School to view custom-built homes that exude luxury and prestige. You'll have great neighbors who share your enthusiasm for maintaining their properties. The Bridle Ridge Community offers plenty of room to construct your personalized home that perfectly matches your style and pref... 03/02/2024

6 Clarendon Ave 21208MLS MDBC 2083002SOLD & SETTLED Congratulations to the seller on the recent sale of this beautiful home located at 6 Clarendon Ave! This white brick home in the heart of Pikesville featured five/six bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, and a two-car garage (one is used as a second kitchen), making it an ideal property for various uses. The home's main level boasts three spacious bedrooms, two primary suites, two and a half bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a second kitchen/prep room. The living and dining room, with elegant wood floors and a cozy fireplace, provided the perfect setting for entertaining family and business guests. Upstairs, two additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, and an expandable attic that could be used for storage or extra bedrooms. The lo... 02/28/2024

Towson, MD – Towson Roofing Pros, a leading roofing contractor serving Baltimore and neighboring areas, proudly shares their expertise in providing expert roof flashing installations in Maryland. Flashing, placed near joints and intersections on a roof, serves as a protective barrier, keeping water out of susceptible areas. Towson Roofing Pros is dedicated to accuracy and long-lasting results, making sure homeowners protect their investment with dependable and expert roof flashing installation services.The spokesperson of Towson Roofing Pros highlights the importance of correct flashing installation in a statement, "At Towson Roofing Pros, we understand the importance of expert roof flashing installations in preserving the integrity of a home. Our skilled professionals are dedicated to ... 02/28/2024